By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Federal Government has commenced a 20-megawatt (MW) mini-grid power project in Egume, Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State, as part of efforts to expand access to electricity and support economic development.
The Minister of Steel Development, Alhaji Shuaibu Audu, performed the groundbreaking ceremony on Friday. According to a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Lizzy Okoji, the project is being implemented through the Federal Ministry of Power and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).
Audu said the Egume project is expected to be the largest mini-grid power project in North Central Nigeria. He added that two additional projects—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—were also commissioned.According to the minister, the projects form part of ongoing efforts to improve electricity access, stimulate economic growth, enhance security, and improve living standards in Kogi State.
He said the Federal Government, in collaboration with the World Bank through the REA, has secured funding of nearly $100 million for mini-grid electrification projects in the region.The Managing Director of the REA, Alhaji Abba Abubakar Aliyu, said the agency has facilitated renewable energy projects capable of delivering reliable electricity to homes, businesses, schools, and healthcare facilities across Kogi State.
Aliyu disclosed that the Egume project will occupy more than five hectares of land and is expected to be completed within six months.Traditional rulers and community leaders welcomed the project, expressing optimism that improved electricity supply would boost economic activities and development in the area.
