… targets 10 additional DARES projects across multiple LGAs in Plateau
Precious Oreoluwa
The Rural Electrification Agency has commenced construction of a 1.5MW interconnected mini-grid in Pankshin, and also unveiled plans for 10 additional projects across multiple local government areas under the DARES Programme in Plateau State.
The groundbreaking ceremony was led by Abba Aliyu, Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, and witnessed by Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, on Tuesday in Pankshin.
Advisors Reports gathered that the REA’s renewable energy programme is implemented by MASK Nigeria Limited in partnership with the Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JEDC).
REA noted that the ceremony follows the recent commissioning of a 50kW Access to Markets and Agriculture (AMP) Solar Mini-Grid in Namu Community, as well as a series of groundbreaking events recently held in Kogi State (20MW), Kebbi State (3.5MW), Adamawa State (27MW), and Rivers State (12MW), respectively.
Abba Aliyu, Managing Director of the REA, addressing stakeholders at the ceremony, emphasized that the Pankshin facility is part of a broader national rollout involving 48 interconnected mini grids across the country.
He noted that the project aims to improve power quality, reduce technical losses, and provide reliable electricity to drive local agro-processing, healthcare, and commercial enterprise.
Aliyu also commended Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for creating a favorable environment for private power investments.
He revealed that 10 additional mini-grids under the DARES Programme are currently under construction in Langtang South, Qua’an Pan, Shendam, Mikang, Wase, Kanke, Kanam, Mangu, and other benefiting local government areas in the state.
Speaking on the importance of the project, Aliyu noted that interconnected mini-grids will strengthen existing distribution infrastructure, reduce network constraints, improve power quality, lower technical losses, and provide additional capacity exactly where it is needed.
The REA boss added that the project will also create opportunities for economic growth by ensuring that electricity becomes a tool for production rather than simply consumption.
Governor Mutfwang on his part, described the project as a landmark intervention that will expand access to reliable electricity, stimulate economic growth, and accelerate industrial development across the state.
He explained that the project represents a major milestone in his administration’s commitment to building a resilient energy sector capable of supporting businesses, industries, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and households.
He noted that the project would significantly reduce dependence on petrol and diesel generators, lower the cost of doing business, enhance productivity, and unlock new economic opportunities for the people of Pankshin and neighbouring communities.
“”We are flagging off a life-transforming and economy-changing initiative. When this 1.5 megawatts of electricity is delivered, the era of dependence on generators in Pankshin will gradually come to an end, while businesses and industries will flourish once again,” the Governor stated.
Governor Mutfwang expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his unwavering support to Plateau State through strategic investments in infrastructure and energy development.
He reaffirmed his confidence in President Tinubu’s vision for national transformation, citing the approval of the Mararaban Jama’a–Pankshin–Langtang–Shendam–River Ibi Federal Road, which will connect communities across Plateau and Taraba States, facilitate trade, improve regional connectivity, and stimulate economic growth.
The Governor also commended the President for approving the conversion of the Federal College of Education, Pankshin, into the Federal University of Education, describing the decision as another historic milestone that will strengthen educational development and human capital in Plateau State.
Governor Mutfwang expressed delight that Plateau State had emerged as one of the leading beneficiaries of the Federal Government’s 750-million-dollar renewable energy programme, revealing that approximately ten similar interconnected solar mini-grid projects are planned for different parts of the state.
He further disclosed that the state government is collaborating with the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) to strengthen electricity transmission infrastructure across Plateau State.
“Our vision is that within the next two years, Plateau State will not only generate sufficient electricity to meet domestic demand but will also become a net exporter of power,” he said.
The Governor also announced that all statutory approvals, including the Certificate of Occupancy for the project site, had been secured to ensure seamless implementation.
He expressed confidence that the project would be completed before the end of the year and urged residents, particularly the youth, to safeguard the facility against vandalism.
