Niger State Backs Federal Plan: Renewables Are Now Our Power Architecture

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This week in Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, made it clear that renewable energy is no longer an alternative. “It is an integral part of our national power architecture,” he said at the launch of the Africa Minigrids Programme’s Nigeria pilot project. The event was also attended by representatives of the United Nations and Managing Director of REA. 

Speaking at the event, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, said access to sustainable energy is essential to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. He emphasized that energy is more than electricity, “it powers hospitals, schools, farms and businesses”. Mr. Fall noted that “energy creates jobs, drives economic growth and improves lives. Without sustainable energy, sustainable development remains out of reach”. He added that the United Nations will continue to partner with the Government, the Rural Electrification Agency, development partners, the private sector, and local communities to advance sustainable energy as a core pathway to accelerate the SDGs.

 Hon. Suleiman Umar, Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy in Niger State, says this shift is long overdue. Reliable electricity is what transforms lives. It keeps hospitals running, helps children learn, supports farmers and small businesses, and creates opportunities for our young people to thrive in their communities.

Mini-grids are now one of the fastest ways to bridge our electricity gap. They are clean, affordable, and they support real economic activity. With the Electricity Act 2023 and the leadership of the Rural Electrification Agency, the Federal Government has created the right environment for states and investors to deliver.

In Niger State, under Farmer Governor Umaru Bago, we are aligning with this national plan. Hon. Suleiman Umar affirms that the state is ready to work with the REA, development partners, and international partners including the United Nations to bring power closer to the people. The goal is simple: more businesses, better incomes, and better lives.

The launch of 23 new mini-grids is a good start. But there is still much to do. The Federal Government, with support from global partners, has set the architecture. Now we must deliver the power.


A.B Makama 

Media Strategist To Honorable Commissioner For Power and Renewable Energy 

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