The Niger Electricity Distribution Company (NEDC) has praised the Niger State Government for its efforts to expand electricity access through the deployment of solar mini-grids and renewable energy solutions across several communities in the state.
The company said the initiative, being implemented under the leadership of Mohammed Umaru Bago, Governor of Niger State, is helping to provide reliable 24-hour solar electricity to more than 180 communities that have lacked stable power supply for over a decade.
According to NEDC, the programme also includes the transition of major public institutions to independent solar power systems. Facilities benefiting from the initiative include the Niger State Government House, the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida Specialist Hospital, the General Hospital Minna, the Niger State Water Board, and several other government ministries, departments and agencies.
The Managing Director of Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc, Chijioke Okwuokenye, described the initiative as a positive step toward improving electricity access through renewable energy. He noted that the move aligns with Nigeria’s decentralised electricity framework under the Electricity Act 2023, which encourages collaboration between governments, regulators and licensed operators to improve power supply.
Similarly, the Chief Business Officer and Acting Managing Director of NEDC, Sam Odekina, said the solar mini-grid projects support the goal of expanding electricity to underserved communities. As the licensed intrastate electricity distributor regulated by the Niger State Electricity Regulatory Commission, he said NEDC is ready to work with the state government on hybrid power solutions, grid integration and other innovative energy projects.
One of the areas benefiting from the solar mini-grid deployment is Lambata, where the project is supported through partnerships with the Rural Electrification Agency and international development partners.
NEDC reiterated its commitment to collaborating with the Niger State Government and relevant stakeholders to deliver reliable, sustainable and inclusive electricity supply across the state.
The company also expressed readiness to explore hybrid grid-renewable solutions, commercially viable grid extensions and public private partnerships aimed at accelerating electrification and supporting economic growth.
According to the company, sustained collaboration between stakeholders will help improve electricity reliability, stimulate industrial development and enhance the overall quality of life for residents of Niger State.