…Push for Solar, Mini-Grids, and Rural Electrification Underway
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to accelerating investments in renewable energy as a strategic tool for industrial development, rural transformation, and inclusive economic growth.
Speaking at the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) State-by-State Roundtable Engagement with Delta State in Abuja, the Governor said the theme of the event — “Unlocking Distributed Energy Investments for Industrial Growth and Inclusive Access in Delta State” — directly aligns with the state’s Medium-Term Development Plan (2024–2027) and his administration’s MORE Agenda.
“Reliable electricity is the cornerstone of productivity, investment attraction, and improved livelihoods, especially in underserved communities,” Oborevwori stated.
Governor Oborevwori outlined Delta’s proactive steps to integrate distributed renewable energy sources — including solar, wind, hydro, and biomass — into the state’s development priorities.
A Decentralized Energy Plan has been developed to power key government facilities such as the Government House, State Secretariat, Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba Airport, and state-owned universities through embedded renewable energy systems.
Ongoing efforts are underway to expand electricity access to rural communities and educational institutions, complementing broader investments in public education and youth development.
Delta is strategically engaging with national energy initiatives including: Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP), Energizing Education Programme, Energizing Economies Initiative, Rural Electrification Fund (REF).
“As fossil fuels become more expensive and less sustainable, Delta sees renewable energy not just as an option — but as the future,” the Governor added. “We are committed to scaling up clean energy to fight climate change, grow local industries, and create sustainable jobs.”
Governor Oborevwori assured stakeholders of a stable policy environment, transparency, and strong returns on investment. He pointed out the growing demand for off-grid and mini-grid systems in rural communities, schools, hospitals, and small businesses across Delta State.
“This is a win-win situation — investors make profit, and Delta gets powered,” he said, extending an open invitation to public-private partnerships in clean energy deployment.
Managing Director/CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency, Abba Aliyu, praised Delta’s leadership in adopting the Electricity Act 2023, establishing a state electricity regulatory commission, and enhancing its rural electrification framework.
He revealed that REA currently has $1.16 billion in funding available to support renewable energy infrastructure nationwide, but stressed that state-level collaboration and private sector participation are critical.
Aliyu cited one potential investor already considering a $53 billion investment in a 600MW solar panel assembly plant, urging Delta to position itself as the destination of choice for such large-scale projects.
“We need strong state-level champions like Governor Oborevwori to convince investors to bring these transformational projects home,” Aliyu said.
He also referenced findings from a nationwide energy access study conducted with McKinsey, which showed that over 119 million Nigerians still lack access to
