FG unveils mini-grid, plans additional 5MW expansion

The Federal Government has inaugurated a 505-kilowatt interconnected solar mini-grid in Epe, Lagos State, marking a significant step in expanding electricity access for over 8,000 residents across several communities. This project, located in the Majoda communities within Eredo, Epe Local Government Area, aims to provide stable power to households in Odogbawojo, Odoshiwola, Odoayan, Ora, and Ibowon.

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This project reflected the Federal Government’s commitment to deploying decentralised renewable energy solutions to improve livelihoods, create jobs, and support economic development.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, highlighted the project as a testament to the government's commitment to deploying decentralized renewable energy solutions. He emphasized that these initiatives are crucial for improving livelihoods, creating jobs, and fostering economic development. Tegbe commended the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and its Managing Director, Abba Aliyu, for their role in driving rural electrification and renewable energy deployment across the nation.

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I think you should commend him, who has undergone a remarkable transformation from a body of admirable mandates but modest delivery into an institution that is genuinely, visibly, and measurably changing the lives of Nigerians.

The minister described the REA's transformation as remarkable, noting its evolution from an agency with "admirable mandates but modest delivery" to one making tangible impacts. He stated that the REA's footprint now spans the entire country, with over 1,000 mini-grids currently under active development nationwide. Additionally, solar home systems deployed under various programs have extended electricity access to millions of Nigerians, with over 3.9 million benefiting from the World Bank-supported DARES initiative alone.

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Over 1,000 mini-grids are currently under active development across the country. Under the World Bank-supported DARES initiative, IMAS solar home systems have now reached more than 3.9 million Nigerians.

Tegbe pointed to similar renewable energy projects in Niger, Sokoto, and Katsina states as evidence that the energy transition is actively occurring across Nigerian communities. He stressed that the Epe mini-grid project goes beyond simply providing electricity; it represents a fully integrated energy system designed to transform lives, unlock economic opportunities, support local businesses, and improve education and healthcare services. The government also announced plans for an additional five-megawatt mini-grid expansion in the Epe area.

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So, REA, you’ve shown that energy transition is not an abstract policy. It’s happening community by community, kilowatt by kilowatt, life by life.