FG Reengages Contractors to Finalize Stalled Rural Power Projects

The Federal Government has reactivated work on previously stalled rural electrification projects by deploying contractors to their respective sites.

This was made known by Abba Aliyu, Managing Director and CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), during a media briefing in Lagos at the launch event of Bellazir Energy Limited. The REA oversees rural electrification initiatives across Nigeria.

Aliyu revealed that although he inherited several uncompleted projects, none are considered abandoned under the current administration.

“We found a significant number of stalled projects—possibly nearing a thousand. However, as of now, we’ve settled outstanding payments, sent contractors back to work, and completed these projects. There may be a few still in progress due to limited budget provisions, but none are completely abandoned,” he clarified.

He also noted that the agency is pursuing strategic initiatives to bridge Nigeria’s energy access gap.

Among the key initiatives is the establishment of the Renewable Energy Asset Management Company, recently approved by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu. The company is set to manage major REA projects and will serve as a platform to attract more funding, with a target to raise up to N1 trillion.

“This company will consolidate our major projects, strengthening our financial capacity and helping us access more investment for future implementation,” Aliyu said.

He further highlighted ongoing projects such as the planned Renewable Energy University and the third phase of the Energising Education Programme, which is nearing completion in eight universities, including institutions in Yola, Port Harcourt, Uyo, Imo, Nasarawa, and Lokoja.

Plans are also in place to begin a fourth phase, targeting another eight universities including Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Benin, and federal institutions in Taraba and Jigawa.

Addressing local solar panel production, Aliyu shared his recent visit to a photovoltaic (PV) plant in Ikotun, Lagos.

“With the ongoing discussions about PV panel importation, we’re championing local production.