Two Plateau Communities Celebrate First Access to Electricity

The Bakin Ciyawa and Kwande communities in Qua’an Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State are rejoicing after receiving electricity for the first time, thanks to a partnership between the Plateau State government and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).

On Monday, the REA launched 550kWp solar hybrid mini-grid projects in both communities, marking a major milestone in improving rural power supply using solar energy. These projects are expected to reduce approximately 600 tons of carbon emissions annually.

During the commissioning, REA Managing Director Abubakar Aliyu, represented by Executive Director Doris Uboh, highlighted that the initiative is part of the Interconnected Mini-Grid Accelerated Scheme (IMAS), which aims to benefit 125,000 people across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

Aliyu explained that the IMAS initiative is designed to expedite the development of mini-grids in Nigeria and provide clean, renewable energy to underserved communities. He noted that the project was funded through an 11 million Euros grant from the European Union and the German government, which has contributed over 60% of the funding.

“The EU and the German government provided more than 60% of the total funding, ensuring each community’s energy needs were addressed based on their capacity,” Aliyu said.

The REA plans to electrify 3,700 rural communities nationwide in phases, beginning with 100 communities per state, which will contribute 370MW of clean energy. The first phase, covering 25 communities per state, will see 925 communities receiving 92MW of clean energy.

In Bakin Ciyawa, a 390 kWp system has been installed, while Kwande received a 160 kWp system. Together, these mini-grids will provide sustainable electricity to over 3,500 households and numerous micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Aliyu emphasized that the reliable electricity would create new economic opportunities, stimulate local businesses, and improve access to essential services such as healthcare and education. He urged the communities to protect the infrastructure to encourage expansion to neighboring areas.

The REA boss also pointed out the significant environmental benefits of the solar mini-grids, noting that they would reduce carbon emissions equivalent to taking 130 cars off the road or planting about 15,000 trees annually.

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, represented by Commissioner for Tourism Cornelius Doeyok, expressed gratitude for the partnership between the state government and the REA, highlighting that the N1.2 billion counterpart funding had already been provided to electrify primary health clinics in the state.

Dr. Karin Jansin, the German Ambassador, also praised the project, emphasizing its importance for both Germany and Plateau State. She noted that over 20,000 people would benefit from the initiative, which would also create jobs, particularly in agriculture and other industries.

Hubert Isah, the head of the two communities, expressed his excitement on behalf of the people, saying, “This project is a significant step forward. It shows that the federal government has not forgotten the rural areas. We now have hope for a brighter future, with development coming to our doorstep.”