Tragedy at Stakeholders’ Meeting: REA Acting Director Ahmed Alhasan Slumps, Dies in Akwa Ibom

The Nigerian power sector was thrown into shock on Wednesday after Ahmed Alhasan, Acting Director of the Rural Electrification Fund (REF) at the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), tragically slumped and died during an official engagement.

Alhasan, a deputy director who was serving in an acting capacity, reportedly collapsed mid-session at the REA stakeholders’ roundtable with Akwa Ibom State and could not be revived despite efforts to save him.

The news of his passing was confirmed in a heartfelt condolence message by Kunle Olubiyo, President of the Nigeria Consumer Protection Network, who described the death as a devastating loss not only to the REA but to the entire Nigerian power and energy sector.

Tributes have since begun to pour in from colleagues, industry players, and stakeholders across the country, many hailing Alhasan as a dedicated professional whose contributions to rural electrification and energy access initiatives left an indelible mark.

His sudden death has once again raised concerns about the intense pressures faced by top public service officials and the urgent need for improved health and wellness support systems within government institutions.