Abba Abubakar Aliyu has recently been appointed as the Managing Director of Nigeria’s Rural Electrification Agency (REA), effective January 23, 2025, after serving as Acting Managing Director since March 2024. With over 20 years of experience in energy and organizational development across both the private and public sectors, Aliyu is spearheading significant initiatives aimed at improving energy access nationwide.
Under his guidance, the REA has ramped up efforts to deliver dependable electricity to underserved regions. A key milestone achieved during his leadership is the launch of a 510kWp solar hybrid mini-grid system in Osun State, which now provides round-the-clock electricity to the communities of Elegbejoda, Mefoworade, Olorunsogo Area 4, and Omifunfun. This project supplies clean energy to more than 1,600 households and over 600 commercial entities, greatly enhancing living standards and economic prospects in these areas.
Aliyu’s forward-thinking strategy emphasizes building partnerships with international stakeholders to broaden renewable energy initiatives. He previously directed the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP) at the REA, managing a $550 million program financed by the World Bank and the African Development Bank. This project aimed to implement solar mini-grids and other renewable technologies to electrify rural areas, thereby fostering economic development and improving social services.
In addition to his current role at the REA, Aliyu has held significant positions within Nigeria’s power sector, including General Manager of Corporate Services and Projects at the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET). His comprehensive expertise in human resources, project management, and policy development equips him with a well-rounded perspective to tackle Nigeria’s energy issues.
See more: Nigeria’s Achievements in just 22 Months are Remarkable.
Abba Abubakar Aliyu is leading Nigeria towards a more electrified and sustainable future through these collaborative initiatives, making certain that even the most isolated communities have access to dependable and clean energy resources.
