Prince Shuaibu Audu Flags Off North Central’s Largest 20MW Mini-Grid Power Project in Kogi East
Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Audu, has flagged off a 20MW mini-grid power project in Egume, Kogi State, described as the largest in North Central Nigeria, alongside the commissioning of two additional renewable energy projects in Kogi East.
The Federal Government has commenced the development of what is being described as the largest mini-grid power project in North Central Nigeria, following the groundbreaking ceremony for a 20-megawatt renewable energy facility in Egume, Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The project was officially flagged off on Friday by the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, who described the initiative as a major milestone in the drive to expand access to electricity, stimulate economic growth, and improve living conditions across communities in Kogi East and beyond.
The event also witnessed the commissioning of two completed mini-grid projects — a 700-kilowatt power facility in Offa, Olamaboro Local Government Area, and a 400-kilowatt installation in Emewe Efopa Community, Dekina Local Government Area.
Speaking during the ceremony, Prince Audu disclosed that the projects, valued at more than $100 million, form part of the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering critical infrastructure under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to the Minister, the projects are being implemented through the Federal Ministry of Power in collaboration with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) as part of a broader initiative aimed at extending reliable and sustainable electricity supply to underserved communities.
He explained that the intervention falls under the “Light Up Kogi” programme, an initiative designed to accelerate rural electrification and unlock economic opportunities across the state.
“Today marks another significant step in the development of our communities. The 20-megawatt Egume project is the largest mini-grid power initiative in North Central Nigeria and reflects the Federal Government’s determination to bridge the electricity gap and drive economic transformation,” he said.
Prince Audu revealed that engagements with the Rural Electrification Agency and relevant stakeholders had already secured more than 40 mini-grid electrification projects across the nine local government areas of Kogi East.
He added that nearly $100 million in funding had been mobilised through partnerships involving the Federal Government, the Rural Electrification Agency, and the World Bank to support renewable energy infrastructure across the region.
The Minister called on host communities to provide the necessary cooperation and support to contractors and government agencies to ensure the timely execution and protection of the projects.
He noted that access to stable electricity remains critical to industrial development, healthcare delivery, education, security, and the overall socio-economic advancement of rural communities.
Prince Audu also commended the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, for supporting the initiative and acknowledged the contributions of the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Alhaji Abba Abubakar Aliyu, toward its realization.
In his remarks, the REA Managing Director praised the Minister for attracting transformative infrastructure projects to Kogi State.
Aliyu disclosed that approximately 29 megawatts of renewable energy projects had been secured for the state through collaborative efforts, with nearly 20 megawatts concentrated within Kogi East.
He described the development as a major breakthrough capable of transforming businesses, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and households through improved access to affordable electricity.
“The impact of these projects will extend beyond power supply. They will create economic opportunities, support local enterprises, and improve the quality of life for thousands of residents,” he said.
Aliyu further explained that the Egume mini-grid project would occupy more than five hectares of land and would be integrated into existing electricity infrastructure to guarantee long-term sustainability.
He expressed confidence that the project would be completed within six months.
Also speaking at the event, the Ejeh of Dekina, His Royal Majesty Alhaji (Dr.) Usman Obaje, OON, commended the Federal Government and Prince Audu for facilitating the projects.
The traditional ruler described the Minister as a worthy ambassador of Igala land whose efforts continue to attract meaningful development to the area.
He assured the Federal Government of the continued support of traditional institutions and residents for programmes aimed at advancing the welfare of the people.
Upon completion, the projects are expected to significantly expand electricity access across beneficiary communities, boost local businesses, improve public services, and strengthen economic activities across Kogi East.