In a major push towards sustainable energy access, the Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has unveiled the deployment of 23 new mini-grids across the country. The initiative, executed through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), is part of the Africa Mini-Grids Programme (AMP) and is set to transform rural electrification in Nigeria.
The announcement was made during the Africa Mini-Grids Programme Grant Award Ceremony held in Abuja, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s journey toward universal energy access. These mini-grids, with capacities ranging from 30 kWp to 200 kWp, are strategically positioned to provide reliable and sustainable electricity to underserved rural communities across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
According to a statement released by the Global Environment Facility on Saturday, the AMP—active in 21 countries since 2022—is designed to uplift over 70,000 Nigerians, facilitating over 600 productive-use connections and 375 social connections such as schools, health centers, and community infrastructure.
As part of the initiative, 18 renewable energy developers have been awarded grant agreements worth $5.91 million to drive the project forward. This funding will not only power homes and businesses but also stimulate economic activities in the agricultural sector, reducing post-harvest losses and enabling value addition for cash crops.
“The GEF-funded AMP has enabled the sector to further x-ray rural agricultural value chains, while creating a pathway for accelerated, sustainable energy access in last-mile communities across Nigeria,” the statement read.
The AMP’s approach is unique in its ability to foster collaboration between public and private stakeholders, ensuring long-term sustainability. The program has identified 23 priority sites for the pilot phase, strategically chosen from 120 potential locations developed under the Energizing Agriculture Programme. These locations represent diverse agricultural activities, including:
Grain Processing – Enhancing energy efficiency in staple food production.
Non-Grain Processing – Strengthening support and value addition for cash crops.
Cold Storage Solutions – Reducing post-harvest losses and improving access to cooling and refrigeration.
The AMP is not just about electrification; it is about transforming rural economies through renewable energy. The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader energy transition goals and serves as a replicable model for sub-Saharan Africa.
Speaking at the event, GEF Operational Focal Person, Mr. Stanley Jonah, underscored the transformative impact of the project, stating that “the completion of the AMP projects will not only enhance the agricultural value chain but significantly improve the quality of life in rural communities.”
Similarly, Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Abba Aliyu, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to decentralized renewable energy solutions, emphasizing that rural electrification is key to unlocking opportunities in the agricultural sector and catalyzing economic growth.
As Nigeria continues to push toward energy inclusion, the partnership between the Federal Government, GEF, and UNDP is proving to be a game-changer, setting the stage for a sustainable, electrified, and economically vibrant future for rural communities.
PIONEER NEWS 