Managing Director and CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu, has revealed that about eight million Nigerians have gained electricity access under the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP), with millions more set to benefit in the coming years.
Aliyu explained that Nigeria, where an estimated 90 million people still live without electricity, is making steady progress in tackling its long-standing energy poverty. Through the NEP, the Federal Government has been able to remove eight million people from the energy deficit by connecting them to a stable power supply.
Speaking in an interview, the REA boss emphasized that the agency has not only achieved its electrification targets but also exceeded expectations.
“There are reports that many Nigerians don’t have access to electricity. But under the Nigeria Electrification Project, we have provided electricity to eight million Nigerians. We also have a programme targeting 17.5 million people. So, in three years, 17.5 million people will also be out of darkness,” Aliyu assured.
He further stated that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring that at least 17.5 million Nigerians will be lifted out of energy poverty within the next three years, especially in rural and underserved communities.
Nigeria has battled poor electricity supply for decades, with rural areas bearing the brunt of the crisis. The Rural Electrification Agency believes projects like NEP are essential to bridging the energy gap and improving socio-economic development.
