Chairman of Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Danlami Muhammad Kurfi, has disclosed the agency is committed to providing reliable and sustainable power to all unserved and underserved rural homes across Nigeria.
Kurfi stated this, yesterday, during the commissioning of 2.0mw solar hybrid power plant at the Usman Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS).
In his speech at the event, Kurfi further disclosed both schools, hospitals, communities as well as the various economic clusters will not be left out in the REA plans.
While noting that REA is using the Energising Education Programme (EEP) to actualise its mandate in the learning institutions, Kurfi added that they are ready to collaborate with public and private sectors towards the progress and success of the power sector.
He said: “I am delighted to be here today as we commission this 2.0mw solar hybrid power project, together with its world class workshop and training centre and solar powered streetlights under EEP Phase 1 which is being implemented by the rural electrification agency.
“As the chairman, REA governing board, I will continue to use my office to ensure we provide the leadership and oversight needed to enhance and advance increased investment, regulations, compliance, proper governance, and other issues that affects the power sector in Nigeria.”.
Vice Chancellor of Usman Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Lawal Bilbis, in his welcome address, said the university is privileged to have the Federal Government 2.0mw solar hybrid power plant, renewable energy workshop/training centre and solar powered streetlights in their institution.
Assuring that the investment and expectations of the facility will be jealously utilised, guarded and protected, Bilbis affirmed it is geared towards supporting the university’s mission towards addressing developmental challenges of Nigeria, via cutting edge research, knowledge transfer and training.
Earlier, Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, who was represented by Commissioner for Energy and Natural Resources, Aliyu Balarabe Dandinmahe, described the EEP as a welcome development.
On his part, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO) Rural Electrification Agency, Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, said the EEP will help students learn in calm and conducive environment with uninterrupted power supply.
He said: “So far as part of the EEP, we have 37 federal universities and teaching hospitals that are affiliated to them, and UDUS here is part of the Phase 1 and being the sixth to be commissioned.
“This project is expected to serve the institution till eternity, however, as you noticed during the inspection, the batteries are expected to last for six years and that is why we are working hand in hand with the state government and the university to continue to maintain the project.”