Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — In a move aimed at accelerating rural development and economic inclusivity, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has announced a strategic collaboration with the Federal Government’s Rural Electrification Agency, REA, to improve electricity access across the state’s rural communities.
The partnership, according to the Governor, aligns directly with the state’s Arise Agenda, a comprehensive socio-economic development blueprint prioritizing infrastructure, rural advancement, and energy access.
“Electricity is very critical in the actualisation of the ARISE Agenda,” Governor Eno said during a courtesy visit by REA’s leadership to Government House, Uyo.
“We welcome this collaboration and appreciate the interest of REA in partnering with the state. We look forward to a robust engagement that will bring power to our rural dwellers,” the governor added.
Governor Eno affirmed that the state government would provide the necessary support to ensure the success of ongoing and future electrification projects across Akwa Ibom.
“This partnership is in line with our commitment to transform every part of Akwa Ibom, especially the rural communities, where power can catalyze growth in agriculture, small businesses, and education,” he said.
The delegation from the REA, led by Managing Director Abba Aliyu, presented an overview of the agency’s 12 core energy programs, with special focus on the ongoing 2.9MW solar hybrid power project at the University of Uyo under the Energizing Education Programme Phase III, EEP III.
Aliyu described the visit as a strategic step towards deepening energy-driven development in Akwa Ibom.
“We are here to explore strategic pathways for energy-driven development in the state. Governor Eno’s ARISE Agenda is comprehensive and visionary, it directly aligns with our nationwide mandate to bridge the energy access gap and drive inclusive socio-economic growth through decentralized renewable energy solutions.”
Aliyu added that REA is committed to leveraging partnerships with sub-national governments to deliver long-term energy infrastructure that will unlock enterprise opportunities, boost education, and improve living standards in rural communities.
REA’s collaboration with Akwa Ibom is part of its broader mandate to bridge Nigeria’s rural-urban energy divide through solar mini-grids, standalone systems, and grid-extension projects.
The partnership is expected to facilitate job creation, reduce energy poverty, and stimulate rural industrialization across the state.
