Ekiti Spends Over N4 Billion on Electricity, Signs MoU with REA

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing electricity access across the state.

He announced that over N4 billion has been invested to enhance power supply infrastructure significantly.

This investment came during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).

Furthermore, this important event took place in Abuja on Wednesday.

The collaboration aims to improve electricity access and reliability for communities across the region.

The partnership aims to implement off-grid electricity projects targeting unserved and underserved communities in Ekiti State.

By accelerating energy access, this initiative will stimulate rural economic activities and provide sustainable, reliable power supply.

Governor Oyebanji emphasized that this initiative transcends technical discussions; it focuses on improving residents’ lives and powering the economy.

Moreover, he stressed that ensuring no community is left behind is essential for development efforts.

The initiative reflects a broader vision of inclusive growth, aiming to uplift all segments of society.

Ultimately, this commitment to enhancing electricity access will foster long-term benefits for the people of Ekiti State.

Achievements in Electricity Infrastructure

Governor Oyebanji emphasized the significant progress his administration has achieved in tackling electricity challenges statewide.

Specifically, he announced the successful reconnection of over 40 towns to the national grid, ending years of blackout.

Consequently, this initiative has provided substantial relief to entrepreneurs and stimulated business growth.

Furthermore, underserved communities now benefit from improved power supply due to ongoing efforts.

In addition, Ekiti State has operationalized an Independent Power Project (IPP) facility through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP).

This facility now delivers 2.6MW of electricity to government facilities, significantly enhancing service delivery.

Moreover, investments in solar power infrastructure have further ensured reliable electricity for general hospitals, primary healthcare centers, and public schools.

As a result, these critical sectors have experienced improved service delivery across the board.

Additionally, the Governor highlighted his administration’s efforts to address metering challenges effectively.

By deploying prepaid meters to thousands of households, they have reduced the metering gap by 80%.

This initiative has also eliminated estimated billing practices, thus enhancing transparency and customer satisfaction within the electricity sector.

Vision for Energy Sufficiency

Governor Oyebanji characterized the partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) as a transformative opportunity.

He expressed confidence that this collaboration will stimulate private investment, ultimately enhancing energy sufficiency in Ekiti State.

Furthermore, he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to achieving 120MW through investor contributions by 2030, which will significantly reduce the state’s energy deficit.

Moreover, he emphasized that today’s event transcends mere discussions about electricity and renewable energy.

It focuses on the well-being of our communities, aiming to illuminate homes and energize the state’s economy.

Ultimately, he envisions a future where no community is overlooked, ensuring that all residents benefit from improved energy access and opportunities.

REA Commends Ekiti’s Efforts

The Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Mr. Abba Aliyu, commended Governor Oyebanji for prioritizing rural electrification as a key component of his development agenda.

He praised the state government for creating enabling policies and institutional frameworks to attract partnerships that deliver sustainable energy solutions.

Mr. Aliyu described the collaboration as transformative for Ekiti’s energy landscape.

He explained that the partnership with REA would extend reliable electricity to rural and underserved communities through off-grid solutions, thereby driving inclusive development.

A Milestone Achievement

Prof. Mobolaji Aluko, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, hailed the MoU with REA as a milestone in Ekiti’s journey toward universal energy access.

He noted that the collaboration aligns with the state’s strategic infrastructure plan, which prioritizes extending electricity to all communities, particularly rural areas with economic potential.

Prof. Aluko emphasized that while the state government has invested heavily in grid extension and other interventions, the partnership with REA would complement these efforts and deliver tangible benefits to residents.

Stakeholders at the Event

The signing ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including Secretary to the State Government Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; Technical Advisor on Power Infrastructure Engr. Philip Atere; Executive Secretary of Ekiti State Electricity Regulation Bureau Engr. Dare Samson; and REA Executive Directors.

Governor Oyebanji reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to continue working with stakeholders and investors to ensure reliable electricity access for all Ekiti residents.

The partnership with REA represents a significant step forward in achieving this vision and fostering inclusive development across the state.

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