REA Proposes N170bn for 500 Electrification Projects

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has unveiled a budget proposal of N170 billion aimed at executing 500 electrification projects across Nigeria by 2026. Managing Director Abba Aliyu disclosed this during a budget defense session in Abuja, emphasizing the agency's strategy to expand electricity access, particularly in underserved rural communities.

A significant portion of the budget, N100 billion, is earmarked for a national public sector solar initiative designed to provide sustainable and reliable power supply. The proposal includes funding for hybrid mini-grids and solar home systems in hard-to-reach areas.

Aliyu reported an 85% execution rate for the 2024 budget and a current execution rate of 32% for 2025, attributing the lower figure to limited fund releases. Hon. Moham Bukar, Chairman of the House Committee on Rural Electrification, expressed satisfaction with the agency's submission and noted the importance of legislative oversight to ensure accountability and alignment with statutory mandates.