The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has commissioned a 440kWp interconnected mini-grid in the communities of Etomi, Agbokim, Abia, and Bendeghe in Etung Local Government Area, Cross River State.
In a statement, it said the project is implemented under the Interconnected Mini-Grid Acceleration Scheme (IMAS), a €9.3 million in-kind grant initiative funded by the European Union and supported by the German Cooperation.
It said the initiative aims to accelerate the development of Nigeria’s interconnected mini-grid market and provide clean energy access to approximately 125,000 beneficiaries with reliable, clean, and sustainable energy to underserved communities.
Speaking at the event, the Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, expressed his appreciation for the project, emphasizing its potential to transform the socio-economic landscape of the state.
Otu who was represented by the state’s Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Prince Eka Williams, stated the mini-grid project is an achievement for Cross River State and would only provide access to sustainable energy for the communities of Etomi, Agbokim, Abia, and Bendeghe but also opens doors to numerous opportunities for growth and development.
The Governor tasked the benefiting communities to scale up the project by actively participating in its maintenance and management, ensuring its long-term sustainability.
He emphasized the importance of community ownership, urging local leaders and residents to take responsibility for protecting the infrastructure and preventing any form of vandalism
In his speech, the Managing Director/CEO of REA, represented by the Director of the Rural Electrification Fund, Ngozi Chimdi-Ejiogu, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders involved in making the project a reality.
The MD/CEO of REA said, “This project is not just about infrastructure; it’s about empowering the communities of Etomi, Agbokim, Abia, and Bendeghe with the transformative power of sustainable energy.
“This mini-grid will enhance local economic activities, support small businesses, improve education and healthcare services, and ultimately uplift the quality of life for the residents of these communities.”