By Musa Ibrahim
The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has joined forces with the Delta State Government to tackle one of the state’s biggest challenges: access to reliable electricity.
More than 60 percent of Delta communities remain off-grid, but a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Abuja promises change. The agreement states that there would be renewable and off-grid power to over 386,000 residents through 120,217 new connections. It is also expected to unlock $158 million in private sector investment and boost Delta’s $2.9 billion economy.
Mr. Sheriff Oborevwori, Delta State Governor, described the deal as central to his administration’s more Agenda and medium-term development plan (2024–2027).
“Electricity access drives productivity, investment, and better livelihoods,” Mr. Oborevwori said. “Off-grid solutions like solar and wind power can transform communities that have waited too long for the national grid.”
He stressed that the initiative goes beyond lighting homes. According to him, it will boost healthcare, improve education, create jobs, and strengthen local industries. The governor pledged to reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks and make the state more attractive to investors.
The Governor revealed that Delta is also developing an 8.5MW independent power plant in Asaba to serve government offices and key public facilities. Noting that, its broader energy strategy includes solar mini-grids, hybrid solar-wind systems, solar farms, and energy-as-a-service models for businesses.
“Delta offers sound, revenue-driven opportunities,” Mr. Oborevwori stated. “Investors can benefit while rural communities gain reliable electricity. With duty waivers, grants, and concessional financing now available, this is the right time to invest.”
Dr. Abba Aliyu, Managing Director of REA disclosed that 471 mini-grid sites have been identified across the state, with Ndokwa East alone hosting over 83 locations.
“Each village can average about 255 connections, making Delta highly attractive for mini-grid investments,” he said. “These projects could create more than 31,000 jobs and electrify over 120,000 buildings.”
Aliyu commended Delta’s electrification plan and highlighted REA’s readiness to support the programme with $1.16 billion in nationwide funds. He also pointed to the potential for a $53 billion, 600MW solar panel assembly plant that could further strengthen the state’s renewable energy drive.
The MoU marks a major milestone in Delta’s push for energy access. Both parties expressed confidence it would spur rural development, improve social services, and bring the state closer to universal electricity coverage.
