Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to harnessing renewable energy solutions to drive industrial growth, rural development, and inclusive economic opportunities across the state.
The Governor made the pledge at the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) State-by-State Roundtable Engagement with Delta, held on Wednesday in Abuja.
Oborevwori said that the them “Unlocking Distributed Energy Investments for Industrial Growth and Inclusive Access in Delta State,” aligned with the state’s Medium-Term Development Plan (2024–2027) and the MORE Agenda.
The governor noted that Delta had strategically positioning itself to leverage national energy programs such as the Nigeria Electrification Project, Energizing Education Programme, Energizing Economies Initiative, and the Rural Electrification Fund.
He also emphasised that reliable electricity is a cornerstone for unlocking productivity, attracting investments, and enhancing livelihoods, particularly in underserved communities.
Oborevwori further highlighted the potential of renewable sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and biomass, describing them as “powerful tools for inclusive growth, enterprise development, and rural transformation.”
He disclosed that the state has developed a decentralised energy plan to power key government institutions through embedded renewable energy systems.
The governor added that plans were underway to extend electricity access to rural communities and educational institutions, reinforcing investments in public education.
He added that plans are also underway to extend electricity access to rural communities and educational institutions, reinforcing the state’s investments in public education, where four state-owned universities currently serve as centers of excellence.
Oborevwori assured prospective investors of a friendly business environment and sustainable returns, noting that the demand for off-grid and mini-grid renewable solutions was “massive and growing.”
He pledged transparency, accountability, and effective collaboration with stakeholders, including the World Bank, REA, renewable energy service companies, and private investors.
“As fossil fuels become increasingly expensive and environmentally unsustainable, Delta State sees renewable energy as the future.
”We are committed to scaling up renewable sources to mitigate climate change, stimulate local industries, and create jobs.”
”This is a win-win situation where investors make profit while Delta gets powered, ” he said.
Managing Director/CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu, commended Delta for its forward-looking electrification strategy anchored on distributed renewable energy, mini-grids, and private sector investment.
He praised the governor for domesticating the Electrification Act 2023, creating a state regulatory commission, and strengthening rural electrification structures.
According to him, these efforts put Delta ahead of most states, positioning it to take charge of its own energy future.
Aliyu disclosed that the REA currently has $1.16 billion earmarked to catalyse renewable energy infrastructure across the country, noting that the funds were available but require strong partnerships with state governments and private investors.
He urged the governor to encourage investors to bring such projects to Delta, noting that the decision ultimately lied with the private sector.
Aliyu cited an investor already considering a $53 billion investment in a 600MW solar panel assembly plant, stressing the need to convince him to site it in Delta.
The REA boss also referenced a nationwide assessment conducted with McKinsey, which revealed that about 119 million Nigerians still needed improved electricity access, with over 22 million households requiring connections.
He explained that the most cost-efficient solutions involve solar home systems and mini-grids, especially for sparsely populated communities where extending the national grid would be uneconomical.
Aliyu noted that Delta has a significant number of such communities and is therefore well suited for renewable energy deployment.
On her part, the Executive Director of the Rural Electrification Fund, Hon. Doris Uboh, in her presentation revealed that bridging electricity gaps across Delta could unlock over 31,200 jobs and attract investments worth $158 million through private sector-led mini-grid projects.
Presenting detailed electrification data, Uboh noted that Ndokwa East tops the list of LGAs with the highest number of unserved residents, followed by Burutu, Ughelli South, Oshimili North, and Warri South West, while Ika South ranks as the most electrified.
Uboh urged investors to seize the opportunity, emphasising that sustainable electrification would not only power households and businesses but also boost economic growth and position Delta as a renewable energy hub.
Earlier, Chief Economic Adviser to the Governor, Dr. Barry Gbe, welcomed participants, describing the roundtable as a platform to foster collaboration and shape Delta’s transition to a sustainable energy system.
A Memorandum of Understanding was also signed between REA, RESCOs, and the Delta State Government on renewable energy investments.
