The Federal Government has officially commenced the construction of a 20-megawatt mini-grid power project in Egume, Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State, in a move aimed at expanding access to electricity and driving economic development across the region.
The groundbreaking ceremony was performed by the Minister of Steel Development, Shuaibu Audu, who described the project as a major milestone in the government’s efforts to improve power supply and stimulate growth in Kogi State.
The initiative is expected to become the largest mini-grid power project in North Central Nigeria upon completion. Alongside the groundbreaking ceremony, two additional mini-grid projects were commissioned in Kogi East—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 Audu, the projects are part of a broader federal intervention valued at more than $100 million and are aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to improve infrastructure, enhance economic opportunities, and raise living standards across the country.
The minister explained that the projects fall under the “Light Up Kogi” initiative, a program designed to provide reliable electricity to underserved communities, boost local businesses, improve security, and support social development throughout Kogi State.
Speaking during the event, Audu said the projects, being implemented through the Federal Ministry of Power and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), demonstrate the government’s commitment to delivering tangible benefits to communities at the grassroots level.
He revealed that through collaborations with the REA and the Ministry of Power, more than 40 mini-grid electrification projects have been secured across the nine local government areas of Igala land. According to him, residents across the region will begin to experience the benefits of improved electricity access in the coming months.
The minister also disclosed that the Federal Government, working alongside the World Bank through the Rural Electrification Agency, had secured funding approaching $100 million for renewable energy and mini-grid projects across the area.
Audu emphasized that reliable electricity remains one of the most important drivers of economic growth and social progress. He noted that improved power supply would support businesses, strengthen healthcare and educational services, enhance security, and create new opportunities for residents.
He expressed appreciation to the Minister of Power, Mr. Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, and the leadership of the Rural Electrification Agency for their support and collaboration in making the projects possible. He also commended traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents for their cooperation.
The Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Alhaji Abba Abubakar Aliyu, praised Audu for his efforts in attracting federal development projects to Kogi State. He noted that approximately 29 megawatts of renewable energy projects have been secured for the state, with nearly 20 megawatts concentrated within Igala land.
According to Aliyu, the Egume mini-grid project will occupy more than five hectares of land and will be integrated with existing electricity infrastructure to ensure a sustainable and reliable power supply. He expressed confidence that construction would be completed within six months.
Aliyu added that the project would provide affordable electricity to homes, businesses, schools, and healthcare facilities while creating fresh economic opportunities for local communities.
Traditional leaders also welcomed the development. Speaking on behalf of community stakeholders, the Ejeh of Dekina, His Royal Majesty Alhaji (Dr.) Usman Obaje, expressed gratitude to the minister for facilitating the project and described it as a transformative investment for the people of Igala land.
The launch of the 20MW mini-grid project represents another significant step in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to expand renewable energy infrastructure, improve electricity access, and promote sustainable economic growth in rural and underserved communities.
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