The Federal Government, in collaboration with the World Bank through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), has secured funding worth nearly $100 million for mini-grid projects across Kogi East Senatorial District.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, during the groundbreaking ceremony of a 20-megawatt mini-grid power project in Egume, Dekina Local Government Area.
The Minister also commissioned an additional 700-kilowatt mini-grid project in Offa Community, Olamaboro Local Government Area; and a 400-kilowatt mini-grid in Emewe Efopa Community, Dekina Local Government Area.
He said the project forms part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to deliver the dividends of the Renewed Hope Agenda to the people of Kogi State.
Prince Audu described the 20-megawatt project as the largest mini-grid power project in North Central Nigeria under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Minister added that the groundbreaking of the 20-megawatt project, demonstrates the federal government’s commitment to improving infrastructure.
He explained that the “Light Up Kogi” initiative is designed to expand access to reliable electricity, stimulate economic growth, improve security, and enhance the the quality of life of residents across Kogi East and other parts of the state.
According to him, engagements with the Rural Electrification Agency and the Federal Ministry of Power have secured over 40 mini-grid electrification projects across the nine local government areas of Kogi East.
The Minister expressed optimism that communities across the region would soon begin to witness the benefits of the intervention.
He assured that the projects will boost businesses, strengthen healthcare and educational services, enhance security, and improve the standard of living.
Prince Audu urged communities to cooperate fully with government officials and project developers to ensure the smooth execution of the projects, describing reliable electricity as one of the critical enablers of economic growth and social development.
In his remarks, Managing Director of REA, Alhaji Abba Abubakar Aliyu commended the Minister’s commitment to attracting development project to Kogi, revealing that his efforts have attracted about 29 megawatts of renewable energy projects to the State.
Aliyu said the projects will deliver reliable and affordable electricity to homes, businesses, schools, and healthcare facilities, creating new economic opportunities for residents.
He disclosed that the Egume project would be completed within six months, urging residents to position themselves to take advantage of the economic opportunities that would accompany improved electricity access.
Speaking on behalf of the Traditional Rulers of the communities, the Ejeh of Dekina, His Royal Majesty, Alhaji (Dr.) Usman Obaje, OON, thanked the Minister of Steel for his efforts to ensure the people of kogi east enjoy uninterrupted power supply.
