By Melvin Onwubuke
The Federal Government has announced, it is planning to construct a off-grid power plants to address energy poverty among Nigerians.
This was disclosed by the minister of power, Adebayo Adelabu in Abuja on Tuesday, at a 2-day stakeholders roundtable, organized by the Rural Electrification Board, according to The Punch.
In the statement, Adelabu noted, the off grid plants would connect to all rural communities not initially connected to the national grid.
In his remark, the 2023 Electricity Act, will serve as a witness to President Bola Tinubu’s vision of creating an enabling landscape for viable energy development.
He said “By seamlessly integrating on-grid and off-grid efforts, we can ensure that every citizen, regardless of location, enjoys the benefits of a reliable and sustainable power supply.
“Only then have we done justice to this nation. Only then have we fully optimised this people-focused and strategic blueprint of Mr President as contained in the 2023 Electricity Act.”
He added “Energy Poverty still affects millions of Nigerians, especially in off-grid communities across the 774 local government areas. Our commitment to inclusivity must therefore be unwavering.
“Rural electrification is not a side note; it is a centrepiece of our agenda. By ensuring that the benefits of electrification reach every corner of our nation, we are not only illuminating homes but catalysing economic growth, improving healthcare, and enhancing educational opportunities.”
He pointed out the ministry was tackling what he termed the historical obstacles mitigating the progress in the energy sector, to ensure good service delivery to Nigerians.
The minister opined, the integration of renewable energy sources into our grid is not just a choice; it is a responsibility.