In a renewed push toward clean energy access and environmental sustainability, the Federal Government has intensified collaboration between the Ministry of Environment and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to advance Nigeria’s green development agenda.
Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, on Tuesday, hosted the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the REA, Engr. Ahmad D. Abubakar, in Abuja to deepen institutional synergy aimed at driving sustainable energy access, especially in rural communities.
The partnership, according to the minister, is designed to address Nigeria’s lingering power challenges through renewable energy expansion, environmental protection, and alignment with the country’s commitments under the Paris Agreement on climate change.
Lawal emphasized that the Ministry of Environment remains committed to supporting REA’s rural electrification drive, noting that access to clean and reliable energy is key to achieving inclusive growth, job creation, and environmental preservation.
He announced that the ministry would expedite environmental impact assessments and other regulatory approvals for REA projects, thereby accelerating project delivery timelines and removing bureaucratic bottlenecks.
The minister also pledged support for renewable energy financing through the Green Bond Project, an initiative designed to fund environmentally sustainable infrastructure. “Our collaboration with the REA is part of the government’s broader plan to transition to a low-carbon economy while ensuring that no community is left behind,” Lawal said.
On his part, REA’s Managing Director, Engr. Abubakar, commended the Ministry for its support and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to expanding off-grid and mini-grid power projects across Nigeria. He stated that clean energy access remains central to national development, especially in rural and underserved areas where the grid supply remains limited.
Abubakar noted that the partnership would also cover waste-to-energy projects, solar energy initiatives, and the implementation of the National Circular Economy Roadmap — all aimed at promoting resource efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, and fostering sustainable livelihoods.
“The REA’s projects not only bring electricity to rural communities but also improve health, education, and economic opportunities. With the Ministry’s support, we can scale our impact and accelerate Nigeria’s clean energy transition,” Abubakar stated.
Both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to ensuring that Nigeria’s environmental and energy policies complement each other, driving a greener, more resilient, and inclusive national economy.
