FG Launches $100m Mini-Grid Power Projects in Kogi

The Federal Government has commenced the construction of a 20-megawatt mini-grid power project in Egume, Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State, as part of efforts to expand electricity access and boost economic development in underserved communities.

The groundbreaking ceremony was performed on Friday by the Minister of Steel Development, Shuaibu Audu, alongside the commissioning of two additional mini-grid projects in Kogi East.

Audu Flags Off North Central’s Largest Mini-Grid Project

The 20-megawatt Egume project is expected to become the largest mini-grid power project in North Central Nigeria.

Also commissioned were a 700-kilowatt mini-grid in Offa Community, Olamaboro Local Government Area, and a 400-kilowatt mini-grid in Emewe Efopa Community, Dekina Local Government Area.

According to a statement issued by the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Lizzy Okoji, the projects are valued at more than $100 million and form part of the Federal Government’s efforts to deliver the benefits of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking at the ceremony, Audu said the projects were being implemented through the Ministry of Power and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).

“Today is a good day for Igala land. The groundbreaking of this 20-megawatt project, the largest mini-grid power project in North Central Nigeria, demonstrates President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to the development of our people,” he said.

The minister added that through engagements with the REA and the Federal Ministry of Power, more than 40 mini-grid electrification projects had been secured across the nine local government areas of Igala land.

Projects Expected to Boost Economic Growth

Audu said the “Light Up Kogi” initiative aims to improve access to reliable electricity, stimulate economic growth, enhance security and improve living standards across Kogi State.

He noted that access to stable electricity remains critical for business growth, healthcare delivery, education and community development.

The minister also disclosed that the Federal Government, in partnership with the World Bank through the REA, had secured nearly $100 million in funding for mini-grid projects across Igala land.

He urged host communities to cooperate with government officials and project developers to ensure the successful delivery of the projects.

REA Commends Audu’s Efforts

Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, praised Audu for attracting major energy investments to Kogi State.

“The Minister has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the development of his people. Through his efforts, about 29 megawatts of renewable energy projects have been attracted to Kogi State, with nearly 20 megawatts located within Igala land,” Aliyu said.

He explained that the Egume project would occupy more than five hectares of land and be integrated into existing electricity infrastructure to ensure sustainable power supply.

Aliyu expressed confidence that the project would be completed within six months.

Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers, the Ejeh of Dekina, Alhaji Usman Obaje, thanked the minister for facilitating the project and pledged continued support for the Federal Government’s development initiatives.

The new power projects are expected to provide reliable electricity to homes, schools, healthcare facilities and businesses, while creating economic opportunities for communities across Kogi East.

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A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.