The Ondo State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal Government’s Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to expand access to electricity across 25 underserved communities in the state.
The agreement was formalised yesterday during a roundtable discussion held in Abuja under the theme ‘From Access to Impact: Unlocking Ondo’s Renewable Energy Potential for Economic Transformation and Socioeconomic Inclusion.’
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who led the state delegation, described the partnership as a pivotal step towards delivering sustainable energy solutions that would transform rural communities and stimulate inclusive growth.
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“This MoU marks the beginning of a strategic collaboration between Ondo State and the REA,” Aiyedatiwa said.
“Our administration has established a legally backed State Rural Electrification Agency that will work in sync with the Federal REA to accelerate project implementation and address local energy needs with greater relevance and urgency.”
The governor noted that the state has become an attractive destination for mini-grid and renewable energy developers due to its clear regulatory framework, streamlined approval processes, and investment-friendly incentives.
“Our Electricity Roadmap targets powering agro-processing hubs, healthcare facilities, schools, digital infrastructure, and small businesses, especially in hard-to-reach areas like Ilaje, Bolorunduro, Idanre, Owo, and Akoko,” he said.
“Beyond infrastructure, we are exploring smart metering, energy storage, and data-driven energy management to ensure long-term impact.”
Describing the partnership as catalytic rather than symbolic, Aiyedatiwa added that reliable electricity access would serve as a foundation for job creation, innovation, equity, and sustainable development.
Speaking at the event, REA Managing Director, Abba Aliyu, revealed that the agency has a renewable energy funding pipeline nearing $1.6 billion, sourced through a mix of public-private partnerships, climate financing instruments, and multilateral support.
According to him, the funds will support the deployment of solar mini-grids, standalone systems, and other clean energy technologies, particularly in remote and off-grid communities.
“We’ve developed a robust programme to power 25 communities across Ondo State,” Aliyu said.
“Our implementation model relies on Renewable Energy Service Companies with proven track records of deploying infrastructure in hard-to-reach areas.”
Aliyu also commended Ondo’s strong policy readiness, noting that the state scored 4 out of 5 on the REA’s subnational preparedness index.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, Ondo State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. Alabi Johnson stressed the centrality of energy access to socioeconomic development.
“In Ondo, we see energy not just as power supply, but as a driver of innovation, productivity, and poverty reduction,” Johnson said.
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“This roundtable provides an opportunity to shape a resilient and inclusive energy future, ensuring no community is left behind.”
The partnership is expected to unlock new economic opportunities across the state while reinforcing the government’s commitment to equitable and sustainable energy delivery.
