REA, NASENI sign deal for rural electrification in Nigeria at COP28

BrandPower Magazine 04/12/2023Last Updated: 04/12/2023

2 minutes read

REA, NASENI sign deal, rural electrification, Nigeria, COP28 Dubai

In an extraordinary move, there has been a groundbreaking collaboration announced at COP28, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) have officially partnered by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The goal of this strategic alliance is to bolster efforts in rural electrification across Nigeria, with a specific focus on bringing clean and sustainable electricity to underserved communities.

The Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Khalil Halilu, expressed enthusiasm for this joint venture, stating, “We are excited to work together on the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP) to facilitate electricity access for rural communities with no access yet.” The NEP is poised to be a transformative initiative, ensuring that remote areas in Nigeria receive the benefits of reliable and clean energy.

The MoU outlines key areas of collaboration, including technology transfer, research support, and knowledge sharing. NASENI’s commitment extends beyond providing electricity; they aim to empower the Rural Electrification Agency with the necessary tools and insights to implement successful projects in these remote communities.

NASENI celebrated the deal with a statement on their X handle read: “EA x NASENI “This Memorandum of Understanding signifies not only a partnership but a pact to empower lives through the transformative power of clean and accessible energy. At the REA, we are inspired by the prospect of leveraging the strengths of both organizations. Together, we will navigate the intricate landscape of research and development, driving innovation that will redefine the energy landscape of our nation.”

After the tweet, criticisms from Nigerians ensued as they questioned why both agencies did not finalize this agreement in Abuja, the federal capital territory, where their headquarters are located.

NASENI, established in 1992, has been operational for 31 years, with its headquarters on Idu Industrial Layout, Abuja. On the other hand, REA, in operation for 17 years since its inception in 2006, has its headquarters at 22, Freetown Street, Wuse, Abuja.

BRANDPOWER however gathered that both Nigerian agencies probably wanted to attract FDI from financiers of green energy currently at the COP28 in Dubai with the symbolic signing at the global event.

Mr. Halilu since assumption of office in September 2023 has made sustainable rural electrification via renewable energies one of his key priorities, having embarked on partnership commitments with government agencies and companies such as Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and Family Homes Funds Limited (FHFL) to ensure rural communities are provided with affordable renewable energy solutions and also homes. This is being accomplished through provision of fund toward research and development, facilitating technology transfer, and support for commercialization of innovative solutions.

BRANDPOWER recalls that in September, NASENI and REA agreed to work together to deploy NASENI solar resources and other renewable energy technologies to increase electricity supply to Nigeria’s rural areas. Also in November, the Family Homes Funds Limited signed an MoU with the Agency to promote modern and sustainable building designs for affordable housing across Nigeria. According to NASENI’s EVC during the MoU signing event with FHFL, he said “the Agency will contribute toward reducing the cost of building materials so that Nigerians can build, own homes and to deploy affordable solar energy solutions”

Family Homes Funds Ltd is a limited liability company owned by the federal government of Nigeria and represented by the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA).