By Mercy Aikoye
The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has unveiled plans to execute more than 500 electrification projects across the country in 2026, backed by a proposed budget of N170 billion.
Managing Director of the agency, Abba Aliyu, disclosed this during a budget defence session in Abuja, outlining the agency’s strategy to expand access to electricity, particularly in underserved and rural communities.
Aliyu revealed that N100 billion has been earmarked for the National Public Sector Solarisation Initiative. The programme is designed to provide sustainable and reliable power supply to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
“The allocation will fund hybrid mini-grids for MDAs, reducing dependence on the national grid and cutting energy costs,” he said.
According to the REA boss, the 2026 budget proposal covers grid extension projects for communities located near existing power infrastructure, deployment of renewable-powered mini-grids for agrarian settlements, and installation of solar home systems in hard-to-reach areas.
“We presented comprehensive details of over 500 projects to the National Assembly,” Aliyu stated, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
Providing an update on past performance, Aliyu disclosed that the agency achieved an 85 per cent execution rate for the 2024 budget. He added that performance for 2025 currently stands at 32 per cent, attributing the lower figure to limited fund releases.
“Implementation will improve as more funds are released,” he assured lawmakers.
Chairman of the House Committee on Rural Electrification, Hon. Mohammed Bukar, expressed satisfaction with the agency’s submissions, noting progress in expanding energy access nationwide.
“Legislative oversight is critical, and we will ensure REA remains aligned with its statutory mandate,” Bukar said.
He added that the committee would embark on oversight visits to project sites to ensure accountability, transparency, and value for money.
“We will continue to ensure the Rural Electrification Agency remains aligned with its statutory mandate and national development priorities,” he said.
As part of its ongoing interventions, the REA has deployed solar-based infrastructure to the National Hospital Abuja, ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply and reducing operational costs at the facility.
