The Ondo State Government and the Federal Rural Electrification Agency (REA) have entered into a transformative partnership aimed at improving access to electricity across underserved communities in the state.
The partnership, formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Abuja, is expected to power at least 25 communities as part of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s broader vision to use energy access as a catalyst for economic growth, innovation, and inclusive development.
Speaking during the roundtable engagement themed “From Access to Impact: Unlocking Ondo’s Renewable Energy Potential for Economic Transformation and Socioeconomic Inclusion,” Governor Aiyedatiwa applauded the REA and its development partners for the timely intervention and collaborative spirit driving the initiative.
“This MoU marks the beginning of a new era of deep collaboration to advance sustainable electrification and localised energy solutions across Ondo State,” Aiyedatiwa declared. “We have set up a State-level Rural Electrification Agency, legally backed and structured to work in synergy with the Federal REA, ensuring local priorities are addressed with urgency and strategic focus.”
The Governor noted that Ondo has positioned itself as a preferred destination for renewable energy developers by providing clear regulatory frameworks, fast-tracked permits, and fiscal incentives that de-risk investments.
“Our Electricity Roadmap is anchored on powering critical sectors — from agro-processing to education, healthcare, and digital infrastructure — particularly in last-mile communities such as Ilaje, Bolorunduro, Idanre, Owo and Akoko,” he said. “We are also exploring innovations in energy storage, smart metering, and data-driven management to ensure long-term impact.”
Managing Director of the REA, Engr. Abba Aliyu, disclosed that the agency currently manages a funding pipeline of nearly $1.6 billion sourced through public-private partnerships, multilateral institutions, and climate finance channels. These funds, he said, would support the deployment of solar mini-grids, standalone energy systems, and clean infrastructure across Nigeria, especially in underserved areas.
“We have designed a program that will energise 25 communities in Ondo State,” Aliyu said. “The state has scored four out of five in policy readiness, and we are confident in its capacity to execute impactful energy projects.”
The event also featured remarks by Ondo State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. Alabi Johnson, who emphasised that access to reliable energy remains a critical enabler of inclusive growth.
“In Ondo State, we see energy not just as power supply, but as a lever to drive productivity, reduce poverty, and promote sustainable prosperity,” he said. “With our vast renewable resources — solar, wind, biomass, and small hydro — we are committed to delivering energy access with lasting impact.”
The roundtable served as a strategic platform to foster dialogue between public agencies, private sector stakeholders, and development partners, as the state maps a bold pathway toward universal energy access and sustainable development
