Oyebanji Signs MoU with REA, Reveals Ekiti Spent ₦48 Billion on Power
In a landmark step toward expanding energy access in Ekiti State, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to strengthen collaboration on rural and renewable energy infrastructure. The MoU was formalized during the REA's State-by-State Roundtable Engagement with Ekiti State, held at Fraser Suites in Abuja.
Governor Oyebanji used the occasion to disclose that Ekiti State has already invested over ₦48 billion in its energy sector within the last few years, signaling a deep commitment to sustainable power development.
“Energy is key to productivity,” the Governor said in his keynote address. “We cannot talk about inclusive growth or youth empowerment without addressing energy poverty. That’s why we’ve committed ₦48 billion to critical power infrastructure so far—and we are ready to do more.”
REA Partnership to Scale Renewable Solutions
The newly signed MoU between Ekiti State and the REA is expected to fast-track off-grid and decentralized energy solutions in underserved communities. Through this partnership, solar mini-grids, hybrid systems, and energy clusters will be rolled out to help power homes, schools, farms, and businesses across rural Ekiti.
REA Managing Director, Abba Abubakar Aliyu praised the Governor’s leadership and stated that Ekiti stands out as one of the most proactive states in energy planning and implementation.
“Ekiti has shown readiness, political will, and an inclusive model that puts people first. This MoU is not just a document—it is a shared commitment to electrify lives,” Abba noted.
48 Billion Naira Investment Reflects Bold Vision
Governor Oyebanji emphasized that the ₦48 billion already committed by his administration and previous efforts includes both grid and off-grid power projects, rural electrification, infrastructure for youth training centres, and independent power systems like the newly commissioned 2.5-megawatt project supporting economic clusters in the state.
The administration has also delivered electricity to over 40 previously unconnected communities, while establishing 13 strategic energy development clusters across 13 of the state’s 16 local government areas.
A 200-bed dormitory for youth innovation and training—powered by renewable systems—is also part of the broader infrastructure rollout aimed at using energy to unlock entrepreneurship and job creation.
Addressing Grid Shortfalls Through Innovation
Highlighting the inadequacy of the national grid, Governor Oyebanji noted that Ekiti receives only 20–25 megawatts from the national system—a figure far below what is needed to sustain the state’s economic momentum.
“We can’t build the Ekiti of our dreams on just 25 megawatts. That’s why we’re thinking locally, acting boldly, and partnering strategically to build our own solutions,” he said.
Path Forward: Partnership and Prosperity
The roundtable ended on a high note with stakeholders from the World Bank, GIZ, the EU, and energy developers expressing interest in collaborating with Ekiti on sustainable energy projects.
Governor Oyebanji closed by reaffirming his administration’s openness to innovation, investment, and inclusive development:
“This MoU is just the beginning. We are not just powering homes; we are powering dreams, powering businesses, and powering a new Ekiti.”
With ₦48 billion already invested and a clear roadmap ahead, Ekiti State is positioning itself as a national model for energy-driven development, anchored on smart governance and public-private collaboration.
With the signing of the MoU and a ₦48 billion investment already on record, Ekiti State is demonstrating that energy access is not just a policy aspiration but a development imperative. By embracing public-private partnerships and prioritizing renewable solutions, Governor Oyebanji’s administration is laying the groundwork for a future where every community, business, and citizen can thrive through reliable and sustainable power.
As Nigeria navigates its energy transition, Ekiti’s bold steps offer a replicable model for other states—where leadership, innovation, and inclusive planning converge to turn electricity from a luxury into a right, and from a challenge into an opportunity for prosperity.
