- As part of the same initiative, two additional mini-grid projects were commissioned in neighbouring communities,
- Audu said the initiative aligns with the administration’s development blueprint under President Bola Tinubu
- He also urged community residents to support contractors and government agencies to ensure smooth execution
The Federal Government has flagged off a major rural electrification drive in Kogi State with the commencement of a 20-megawatt mini-grid power project in Egume, Dekina Local Government Area.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the project was officially launched on Friday by the Minister of Steel Development, Shuaibu Audu, who described it as a landmark intervention expected to significantly improve electricity access across Kogi East and surrounding communities.
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According to a statement issued by the Minister’s media aide, Lizzy Okoji, the Egume project is projected to become the largest mini-grid power installation in Nigeria’s North Central region. It is part of a broader energy expansion programme being implemented under the Federal Government’s rural electrification agenda.
As part of the same initiative, two additional mini-grid projects were commissioned in neighbouring communities, including a 700-kilowatt facility in Offa community in Olamaboro Local Government Area and a 400-kilowatt installation in Emewe Efopa community in Dekina Local Government Area.
The projects, valued at over $100 million, are being executed through the Ministry of Power in collaboration with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) as part of efforts to expand access to reliable electricity in underserved areas.
Audu said the initiative aligns with the administration’s development blueprint under President Bola Tinubu, noting that improved electricity supply remains central to economic growth, job creation, and social development.
He explained that the “Light Up Kogi” programme, which he is championing, is designed to extend power supply to rural communities, stimulate small businesses, improve public services, and enhance security across the state.
The minister also revealed that more than 40 additional mini-grid projects have been secured for communities across the nine local government areas in Igala land, with implementation expected to begin in phases.
He further disclosed that the Federal Government, in partnership with the World Bank and the Rural Electrification Agency, has mobilised close to $100 million to support renewable energy expansion in the region.
Audu commended the Minister of Power, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, and the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, for their roles in driving the project, describing the collaboration as key to its success.
He also urged community residents to support contractors and government agencies to ensure smooth execution and timely completion of the projects.
Speaking at the event, REA Managing Director Abba Abubakar Aliyu praised Audu’s efforts in attracting federal infrastructure to Kogi State, noting that the minister had played a key role in securing significant energy investments for the region.
He disclosed that the Egume project will cover more than five hectares of land and will be integrated with existing infrastructure to ensure stable and sustainable electricity supply. He added that completion is expected within six months.
Traditional rulers from the benefiting communities, led by the Ejeh of Dekina, Usman Obaje, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for bringing development to their area and pledged continued support for ongoing projects.
The rural electrification initiative is expected to boost economic activities, improve access to education and healthcare, and enhance overall living standards across the affected communities in Kogi State.
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