Abuja: The Minister of Power, Mr. Joseph Tegbe, has announced a strategic shift in Nigeria’s electricity sector, prioritizing the electrification of more communities across the nation over merely counting kilowatts and megawatts. This statement was made during the inauguration of the Governing Board of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the newly inaugurated seven-member board includes former Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti as Chairman, along with Alhaji Ahmadu Abubakar and Mr. Ilyasu Makinta as members and non-executive directors. The board is completed by the Managing Director of the agency, Mr. Abba Aliyu, and three executive directors previously appointed.
Mr. Tegbe emphasized the unique and strategic role of the REA in Nigeria’s power sector, highlighting its mandate to extend beyond mere connectivity to electricity. He stated, “We are moving from just counting kilowatts and megawatts to how many communities and people were powered in the country.” The minister underscored that every electrification project, from mini-grids to solar home systems, represents an investment in human capital and economic inclusion, contributing to national prosperity.
The minister also noted that as Nigeria continues implementing the Electricity Act and deepening reforms in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry, the REA’s role becomes increasingly significant. He pointed out that the agency acts as a bridge between national policy and grassroots impact, ensuring that power reforms benefit both urban and remote communities.
Mr. Tegbe further mentioned that the constitution of the board reflects President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening governance in public institutions, promoting a culture of accountability and strategic oversight. He urged the board members to provide clear policy direction and encourage partnerships with development partners and the private sector.
Responding to his appointment, Chairman Fayose expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and acknowledged the challenges at the grassroots level in the power sector. He emphasized that their mission goes beyond providing electricity to impacting the livelihoods of the Nigerian population. Fayose committed to elevating the agency’s impact by securing necessary funds and achieving its programs.
The REA’s Managing Director, Mr. Aliyu, also expressed his commitment to ensuring electricity reaches both served and underserved communities, fulfilling the agency’s mandate under the guidance of President Tinubu’s administration.