By George Ozalla
The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) State-by-State Strategic Roundtable Engagement with states brought together industry players, experts, investors, Renewable Energy Service Companies, and Development Finance Institutions for the REA-Bayelsa State Roundtable in Abuja, Bayelsa being the 7th state in the series.
The roundtable was themed “Strengthening State-Led Energy Partnerships in Bayelsa State: Unlocking Investment and Sustainable Finance for Socioeconomic Growth.” This engagement is primarily targeted to tap into opportunities and possibilities in the State Electricity Market, in line with the 2023 Electricity Act, which state governments are progressively keying into to enhance energy development and expansion for economic growth.
Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, who defied all odds to be in attendance despite arriving straight from Dubai, showed both his full commitment and readiness to make Bayelsa shine with light. His presence underscored the state’s eagerness to explore clean energy opportunities and deploy quality, sustainable projects that will stand the test of time and serve Nigerians.
Governor Diri during his remark assured of his state’s preparedness and full cooperation in partnering with REA and other investors in bringing about more rural electrification projects across the state, he further listed all achievements made so far and future expansion initiatives with timeline for completion.
The REA’s efforts are part of a broader initiative to electrify economic clusters in Nigeria, including markets, shopping plazas, and industrial clusters. Over 300 clusters have been identified for electrification across the country, with over 12,000 shops already receiving clean, safe, reliable, and affordable electricity supply.
Private developers at the roundtable highlighted challenges such as technical and legal solutions to customer bypass, funding constraints, gas unavailability, power shortage, and system collapse. The Rural Electrification Agency REA emphasized the need for developers to deliver on their obligations and strengthen their communication culture.
Several projects are underway in Bayelsa State, including the construction of a 33KV line and installation of transformers, worth ₦200,414,132.00, aimed at electrifying three communities. Additionally, multiple projects are providing solar lighting to various schools and communities in Bayelsa State. These projects include the provision of solar lighting at Government Secondary School, Twon-Brass, worth ₦5,959,800.00, awarded to Alliance Boots Limited, and the provision of solar lighting at Community Secondary School, Sangana, worth ₦5,973,550.00, awarded to Whitehound Techno Nigeria Ltd.
The REA is committed to creating an enabling environment for private sector-led projects, with a focus on sustainable energy solutions. The agency has obtained financing amounting to $550 million for the Nigeria Electrification Project and an additional $11 million for the Rural Electrification Fund.
During his remarks, Engr. Abba Abubakar Aliyu, Executive Director of the REA, highlighted the agency’s efforts in promoting sustainable energy solutions in Nigeria. He noted that the agency has been working closely with state governments, private developers, and other stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of energy projects across the country.
The roundtable discussion also featured presentations from private developers, who highlighted their experiences and challenges in implementing energy projects in Bayelsa State. The developers emphasized the need for improved funding, technical support, and policy frameworks to support the growth of the energy sector in the state.
The event provided a platform for stakeholders to engage in discussions on the way forward for energy development in Bayelsa State. The REA’s efforts are expected to contribute to the state’s economic growth and development, by providing access to reliable and affordable energy solutions.
Highlights of the event include group photographs and signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on behalf of Bayelsa state by the Honorable Commissioner for Power, Engr Kharin Akari Komuko.
