The chief executive officer of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu, has described Nigeria’s Electricity Act as a key enabler for the deployment of hybrid energy models and gas-powered mini-grids across the country.
Speaking through Japheth Ailenataman at the Oriental News Nigeria 2025 Conference in Lagos, themed “Integrating Nigeria’s Gas Potential Into Strategic Energy Transition Initiatives,” Mr Aliyu said the Act’s provisions support the integration of gas into Nigeria’s energy transition plans.
He explained that the Electricity Act promotes technology neutrality, decentralisation of energy regulation and stakeholder collaboration, all of which provide a strong foundation for innovative off-grid energy solutions.
“REA hybrid mini-grid project design supports off-grid gas-powered systems in areas where such solutions are technically and economically feasible,” he stated.
Aliyu highlighted that under the act, states now have the authority to regulate electricity markets within their jurisdictions, especially for off-grid and embedded generation.
This, he said, opens the door for localized, gas-powered mini-grids in rural and underserved communities.
“These reforms lower the barrier for independent power producers and mini-grid developers, including those utilizing gas technology,” he said.
Aliyu emphasised the importance of engaging with state electricity regulators on key issues such as licensing, tariffs, safety standards and integration of gas systems into mini-grids.
He said this will help accelerate Nigeria’s energy transition goals while enhancing private sector participation.
He also cited REA’s ongoing efforts to integrate solar and gas-powered hybrid systems into educational and economic infrastructure projects.
Notable among them is a 12MW embedded system project at the University of Maiduguri.
“This integration offers many benefits, including emissions reduction, improved reliability of power supply, and increased productive use of electricity,” he said.
Looking ahead, Aliyu noted that programs such as the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP) and the newly launched NFPS (National Framework for Powering Schools) offer further opportunities to scale gas-solar hybrid solutions for public institutions.
“We affirm our commitment to ensuring rural electrification contributes to Nigeria’s energy transition plan and net-zero goals,” Aliyu said.
“Decentralized energy models like solar-gas hybrid mini-grids are vital to this vision.”
