The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) of Nigeria has announced plans to implement over 500 electrification projects in the 2026 fiscal year, backed by a proposed budget of N170 billion. The initiative aims to expand reliable power supply to public institutions and underserved rural communities, reinforcing the country’s shift toward decentralised renewable energy solutions.
A significant portion of the budget, N100 billion, is allocated to the National Public Sector Solarisation Initiative. This flagship programme will fund hybrid mini-grids for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) both within and outside Abuja, reducing grid dependency and cutting energy costs for public facilities. The REA cited the National Hospital Abuja as a successful example, where existing solar infrastructure has provided uninterrupted power and lowered operational expenses.
The 2026 portfolio combines several approaches tailored to different regional needs. For communities near existing infrastructure, the agency will extend grid connections through distribution lines and transformers. In agrarian areas and processing clusters, renewable-powered mini-grids will be deployed to boost economic activity and reduce post-harvest losses. For sparsely populated or remote regions, standalone solar home systems will be provided where grid or mini-grid solutions are not economically feasible.
Managing Director Abba Aliyu presented these plans during the 2026 budget defence before the House Committee on Rural Electrification. He highlighted the agency’s performance, noting an 85% execution rate for the 2024 budget and a 32% implementation rate so far in 2025, despite limited fund releases. He expressed optimism that execution would improve as additional finances are disbursed.
Committee Chairman Mohammed Bukar expressed satisfaction with the REA’s submissions after scrutiny, acknowledging measurable progress in expanding electricity access through off-grid and renewable interventions. While commending the agency’s adherence to procurement and fiduciary safeguards, the committee emphasised its commitment to oversight visits, ensuring alignment with statutory mandates and national development priorities.
The REA has established itself as a central player in Nigeria’s rural electrification and energy transition, largely through off-grid solutions. Its major programmes—including the Energising Education Programme for federal universities and teaching hospitals, and the Energising Economies Initiative for markets and business clusters—have deployed solar hybrid systems and mini-grids nationwide. Supported by partners like the World Bank and African Development Bank under the Nigeria Electrification Project, these efforts have brought electricity to millions, reduced diesel generator use, lowered costs for small businesses, and stimulated rural economies.
The 2026 proposals signal a sustained push to address Nigeria’s persistent power access gaps, particularly in off-grid regions, through targeted, renewable-based interventions.
