By Jonathan Lois
The Benue State Government has moved to accelerate rural electrification and renewable energy development across its grassroots communities by wooing local and international investors.
This was disclosed during a high-level investment forum recently organised by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the Federal Ministry of Power in Lagos.
Representing Governor Hyacinth Alia, the Commissioner for Power, Transport and Renewable Energy, Joseph Ter Ijir, noted that the engagement follows the recent passage of the law establishing the Benue State Electricity Regulatory Commission.
He stated that the milestone positions the state to regulate its electricity market and attract private sector participation in power generation and distribution.
According to a statement by the Director of Corporate Communication and Advocacy at Idealab Agency Limited, Comrade Gbaa Nguuma, the commissioner assured investors of the government’s dedication to supporting solar power projects.
“Benue is fully prepared to commence electricity generation and distribution under the new legal framework, thereby contributing to improved energy access within the state and across Nigeria,” Ijir said.
Also speaking, the Director of Engineering Services at Idealab, Engr. Polycarp Andura, called on foreign investors and development partners to tap into Benue’s growing power sector.
Advocating seamless regulatory coordination among the state, the Federal Government, the regulatory commission, and the Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JED), Andura stated: “Strengthening these institutional partnerships will create a conducive environment for sustainable investment and improved electricity access across the state.”
Furthermore, the Managing Director of Idealab, Ambassador Rex Aondoakaa, urged the state government to take advantage of funding opportunities offered by the World Bank investment team.
He advised the state to fulfil its equity contribution requirements to unlock investments from the YIELD Group under the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) for financing greenfield power and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) projects.
“Timely participation in the initiative will position Benue to attract significant international financing, accelerate infrastructure development, create employment opportunities, and establish itself as a leading destination for renewable energy investments in Nigeria,” Aondoakaa concluded.
