By joshua Celebrating 3 Years Anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu : Prince Shaibu Abubakar Audu Collaborates With The MD of Rural Electrification Agency (REA) Abba Abubakar And Unveils 20 Megawatt Minigrid Project In Kogi State
On June 5, 2026, a significant milestone was achieved in Kogi State as Prince Shaibu Audu Abubakar, the Honourable Minister of Steel Development, in collaboration with Abba Abubakar, the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), marked three years of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Administration with the groundbreaking ceremony for a 20 megawatt minigrid in Egume Area of Dekina Local Government of Kogi State This project represents a pivotal step towards enhancing energy access and fostering development in the region.
The 20 megawatt minigrid is set to be the largest of its kind in the entire North Central region, promising to provide reliable electricity to about 16,587 household , and significantly improve the quality of life of residents. The initiative is expected to serve Over 40 communities starting from Dekina ,Olamaboro, Ofu Idah LGA’s and targeted to reach the Nine LGA’s of Kogi East ,lighting up Kogi East and supporting small-scale businesses and enterprises that rely on consistent power supply and at the end of it , over 40 communities will benefits across the Nine LGA’s of the Eastern planks.
Prince Shaibu Abubakar Audu , whose late father was a revered figure in Kogi State, has continued the legacy of service and progress of his Late father. His commitment to the welfare of the people is evident in this project, which has garnered appreciation from various stakeholders, including traditional Rulers such as the Eje of Dekina and the Onu of Egume. The Ejeh expressed gratitude for the solar energy initiative, highlighting its potential to eradicate black out,poverty and stimulate economic growth in the region.
The Managing Director of the REA commended Prince Shaibu Abubakar Audu for his tireless efforts and dedication to the people of Kogi East and Kogi State at large. He emphasized that the minigrid is not just an infrastructural development but a humanitarian effort aimed at uplifting communities and fostering sustainable growth.
In a remark,the Dr . Kennedy Nnagha ( Director )of Mahashakti Nigeria Ltd handling the Contract praised the Hon. Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shaibu Abubakar Audu for finding time to be on ground at the site and also commended HRH ,Onu Egumeh for his Cooperation with their team in making this project realistic as he promised that the project will be completed within six months for the benefits of the community.
As Kogi State looks towards the future, this groundbreaking ceremony symbolizes hope and progress. The commitment to providing energy solutions through minigrids is just the beginning, with plans for further developments across all nine local governments in Kogi East. The people of Kogi State will undoubtedly remember Prince Shaibu Abubakar Audu for his contributions and leadership, as they continue to appreciate the positive changes that such initiatives bring to their lives
Prof. Ameh Joseph writes from Johannesburg, South Africa
06 June, 2026