… says renewable energy is not substitute for national grid but integral component of broader power architecture
Oredola Adeola
Joseph Tegbe, Minister of Power has launched the Africa Mini-Grids Programme (AMP) Nigeria Pilot Project, comprising 23 mini-grids across 15 states, aimed at improving electricity supply and enhancing energy access nationwide.
According to the Minister, the initiative aligns with broader efforts to rehabilitate the national grid, expand off-grid assets, and strengthen transmission and distribution networks across the country.
He made this known at the official launch of the Africa Mini-Grids Programme (AMP) on Thursday.
He further emphasised that the milestone project, driven by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), is expected to deliver measurable impact, with 23 mini-grids bringing power to approximately 20,000 households and over 50,000 Nigerians.
Speaking on the theme, “Powering Agricultural Value Chains and Stimulating State Energy Markets,” the Minister emphasised that the project goes beyond basic electrification.
In communities such as Namu in Plateau State, the mini-grids are already supporting agro-processing activities, increasing incomes, and strengthening local economies.
He said, “Behind these numbers are thriving businesses, improved livelihoods, empowered women, stronger local economies, and communities with new opportunities to grow.
He noted that renewable energy is not a substitute for the national grid but an integral component of Nigeria’s broader power architecture, adding that the government is deploying appropriate technologies tailored to the needs of different communities.
“Every Nigerian deserves reliable and affordable power, regardless of location,” he said.
The Minister further disclosed that Phase Two of the programme will expand deployment, targeting additional mini-grids to power over 50,000 households and micro-businesses.
Addressing public concerns over the performance of the national grid, he acknowledged longstanding infrastructure gaps while assuring Nigerians of ongoing reforms.
“What was neglected for 50 years cannot be fixed in six months, but we are making progress. In a short while, the results will be evident for all to see. That is my commitment, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu,” Tegbe stated.
REA MD, Abba Aliyu in his comment stated that REA in collaboration with the UNDP, GEF, and the Federal Ministry of Power, has delivered 23 solar-powered mini-grids, providing more than 1.3MW of clean and reliable electricity to over 43,000 Nigerians.
He said, “The unveiling of the National Geospatial Atlas of AMP Pilot Sites goes beyond documenting where these projects are located, it represents our commitment to transparency, evidence-based planning and ensuring that the lessons from this programme help shape the next generation of renewable energy investments across Nigeria and the continent.
Aliyu noted that the success of AMP reminds us that mini-grids are no longer simply an alternative to conventional power, they are a proven pathway to economic growth, climate resilience, and inclusive development.
