In a significant leap towards rural electrification, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has formed a strategic partnership with the Africa Mini-grid Developers Association (AMDA). The groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding, signed recently, is a catalyst for the rapid deployment of mini-grids across the country, tapping into solar power to drive broad-based electrification.
The Nigeria Electrification Project, under REA’s guidance, has successfully launched 103 solar mini-grids, with the financial backing of the World Bank. This notable progress in renewable energy marks just the beginning, as the fresh collaboration with AMDA aims to broaden these ventures significantly. The partnership will address critical areas such as knowledge sharing, skill improvement, and strategic alignment within the sector.
During the MoU ceremony in Abuja, Engr. Salihijo Ahmad, Managing Director of REA, shared the partnership’s strategic underpinnings. “Together with AMDA, we are at the forefront of fostering sustainable advancements in the mini-grid sector,” he explained. The initiative aligns with the government’s pledge to introduce affordable, clean electricity across Nigeria, recognizing the indispensable contribution of private-sector players.
“The journey towards nationwide electricity access is daunting. It’s not a challenge the government can tackle in isolation,” asserted Ahmad. He emphasized REA’s steadfast commitment to partnering with private stakeholders, ensuring light reaches every corner of the nation.
Olamide Niyi-Afuye, AMDA’s CEO, illuminated the comprehensive extent of mini-grid installations required to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 7. “The roadmap includes the establishment of approximately 40,000 mini-grids in Nigeria alone. Across Africa, the figure escalates to 160,000,” he revealed. This daunting number highlights AMDA’s resolve to join hands with REA, nurturing a robust mini-grid sector in Nigeria.
“Mini-grids are more than an energy solution; they are a lifeline for countless Nigerians,” expressed Niyi-Afuye. The partnership stands as a testament to potential sectoral evolution. “Our pledge extends beyond collaboration. We are committed to forging a thriving ecosystem for the mini-grid sector,” he added.
The alliance between REA and AMDA signals an electrifying new narrative in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector. It’s a fusion of public aspirations and private expertise, aiming to spark life into rural communities through electrification. This synergy solidifies the promise of not just illuminating homes but also empowering lives, with each mini-grid installation.
