The Niger Electricity Distribution Company (NEDC), a subsidiary of Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc (AEDC), has expressed strong support for the Niger State Government’s initiative to deploy solar mini-grids and renewable energy solutions across underserved communities in the State.
The Head of Brand Marketing and Corporate Communications, Omede Odekina, disclosed this in a press statement, noting that the initiative, spearheaded under the leadership of Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, aims to provide reliable and sustainable electricity to underserved communities.
According to Odekina, the programme has already delivered 24-hour solar electricity to more than 180 communities and facilitated the transition of key public institutions, including hospitals, government facilities, and ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), to independent solar systems.
“These interventions mark a major milestone in addressing longstanding energy access challenges and improving service delivery, public health, and economic activities across Niger State, north-central Nigeria,” he added.
Commenting on the development, the Managing Director of AEDC, Chijioke Okwuokenye, described the initiative as a positive step toward strengthening decentralised power generation.
He noted that the project aligns with national efforts to promote renewable energy and reflects the importance of collaboration between government authorities, regulators, and licensed operators in accelerating access to reliable electricity.
Similarly, the Chief Business Officer and Acting Managing Director of NEDC, Sam Odekina, emphasised that the deployment of solar mini-grids supports the company’s vision of inclusive electrification.
He reaffirmed NEDC’s readiness to partner with the state government on hybrid power solutions, grid integration, and innovative projects that deliver sustainable benefits to residents, businesses, and institutions.
He further acknowledged that the initiative aligns with the decentralised electricity framework and the regulatory oversight of the Niger State Electricity Regulatory Commission (NSERC).
“Projects in communities such as Lambata in Gurara Local Government Area, supported through partnerships with agencies like the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and international donors, complement national efforts to expand renewable energy access and reduce dependence on conventional grid extensions,” he said.
Reaffirming its commitment, NEDC pledged continued collaboration with the Niger State Government, NSERC, and other stakeholders to ensure reliable, sustainable, and inclusive electricity supply throughout the State.
The company noted that through hybrid solutions, commercially viable grid extensions, and public-private partnerships, the current momentum can be sustained to promote economic growth, improve livelihoods, and build a resilient energy future for the people of Niger State.