SSDC, REA Partner to Power South-South with Clean Energy
By Ekanem Asuquo
The South-South Development Commission (SSDC) has announced a comprehensive plan to expand electricity access to all rural communities across the South-South region.
The initiative was unveiled by the Managing Director of SSDC, Ms. Usoro Akpabio, after a strategic meeting with the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Engr. Abba Abubakar Aliyu, in Abuja on Tuesday.
Ms. Akpabio said the project is designed to bridge the region’s energy gap and stimulate inclusive economic growth through clean and sustainable energy solutions. She explained that the plan covers the electrification of rural and riverine communities, agricultural and processing hubs, schools, health centres, and small businesses.
“Our goal is to empower the people of the South-South by improving energy access and expanding opportunities for growth. Through this partnership with REA, we are set to transform the energy landscape of the region while promoting youth training and job creation in the clean energy sector,” Ms. Akpabio stated.
She commended Engr. Aliyu for his leadership and pledged the Commission’s commitment to work closely with REA to deliver impactful and transformative projects.
In his remarks, the REA Managing Director, Engr. Abba Abubakar Aliyu, applauded SSDC for its forward-thinking approach and commitment to regional development. He assured the agency’s full support for the collaboration, noting that several REA projects in the South-South region would serve as a foundation for the new initiative.
Engr. Aliyu listed ongoing and completed REA projects such as solar hybrid mini-grids, electrification of schools and healthcare facilities, and market power projects, reaffirming the agency’s resolve to expand its footprint across the region.
Both agencies agreed to set up a joint working group to accelerate project implementation, with special focus on renewable energy expansion, youth empowerment, and job creation in the clean energy sector.
