Enugu: The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), has lightened up the Uhuafor Nomeh community in Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State with the construction of a solar hybrid mini-grid of 100kWp in the community. The project is expected to improve the socioeconomic conditions of the people in the community and three other neighbouring communities, who have lived without electricity for over 18 years. The project was completed under the Rural Electrification Fund – Call 2 programme of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).
According to Voice of Nigeria, during the commissioning of the project, Governor Peter Mbah, represented by his special adviser on power, Sir Joe Aneke, commended the Rural Electrification Agency for its commitment to bringing sustainable energy solutions to rural communities across the country. He stated that the electricity project in Nomeh would bring lasting solutions to the problems of lack of electricity in rural communities. The gov
ernor noted that the project aligns with his agenda of fostering innovation, improving rural infrastructure, and creating a green, energy-sufficient state.
Governor Mbah expressed gratitude to the REA for their collaboration, acknowledging the dedicated engineers and technicians for their expertise, and appreciating the people of Nomeh for their patience and belief in the project. He urged the community to take full advantage of the project and care for the shared asset, emphasizing its importance for community growth and betterment. Mbah also highlighted his administration’s readiness to work with the REA on future projects proposed for the state.
The REA Managing Director/CEO, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, represented by the Executive Director, Rural Electrification Fund, Engr. Doris Uboh, stated that the project is one of many efforts by the federal government through REA to connect last-mile communities to clean, sustainable energy sources and facilitate socioeconomic growth. Aliyu conveyed President Bola Tinubu
‘s commitment to the welfare of rural communities and continued efforts to ensure no community is left behind.
The traditional ruler of the community, Igwe Ikechukwu Mbah, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government and project implementers for providing infrastructure to improve their livelihoods. He recalled the community’s 18-year absence of electricity and celebrated the project’s completion, which now allows residents to enjoy amenities like cold water and electric lighting for studying.
The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) is tasked with electrifying unserved and underserved communities to catalyze economic growth and improve the quality of life for Nigerians. The Agency implements various programs to create an enabling environment for private sector-led projects and engage stakeholders in sustainable energy development.