Katsina State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) towards renewable energy adoption in Katsina State.
Also, as part of efforts to reposition Katsina State as a leader in Nigeria’s renewable energy transition, Governor Radda announced a concession plans to restore the wind energy project in Rimi Local Government Area.
He unveiled these initiatives during a roundtable meeting held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja on Thursday.
The signing of the MOU by Katsina State Government establishes a robust framework for collaboration, aimed at accelerating energy access across communities and businesses in the state.
Governor Radda noted that
the state’s geographical location offers exceptional renewable energy potential.
“Our state experiences some of the highest solar irradiation levels in Nigeria, and our wind energy project in Rimi exemplifies our commitment to harnessing these natural advantages for our people’s benefit.”
Governor Radda further disclosed that the state is actively seeking qualified partners to take over the Rimi wind energy project, marking a significant step towards optimizing its efficiency and service delivery.
The REA will provide technical advisory support throughout the concession process, ensuring adherence to international best practices and maximizing the project’s impact on local communities.
To facilitate these renewable energy initiatives, the Katsina State Government has announced an attractive incentive package for developers, including subsidized land allocation, expedited approval processes through a dedicated renewable energy desk, and comprehensive logistical support.
To further create a sustainable ecosystem for energy investment, the state government expressed its commitment towards facilitating power purchase agreements with local businesses.
Governor Radda emphasized that his administration’s strategy extends beyond mere infrastructure development.
“We have conducted a comprehensive mapping of viable clusters across the state, identifying areas where sustainable energy solutions can have the most significant impact on MSME development and community growth.”
The Katsina Governor noted that the collaboration with REA builds upon their successful track record in Katsina State, including the electrification of multiple healthcare facilities under the COVID-19 and other initiatives.
The new partnership promises to expand these efforts, particularly through the Nigeria Electrification and Support Implementation Program (NESIP).
Hajia Aisha Aminu Malumfashi, Director General of Katsina State Enterprises Development Agency (KASEDA), revealed how what began last month as a focused mission to secure renewable energy solutions for MSMEs evolved into an ambitious vision for universal energy access across Katsina State. Describing the transformative scope of the partnership, Aisha remarked,
“We approached REA in search of gold, but what we found was a diamond.”
The expanded collaboration now encompasses both MSME development and broader community electrification under the National Electrification Strategy Implementation Plan (NESIP).
This broader vision aligns perfectly with Governor Radda’s comprehensive development agenda for Katsina State, where reliable power access is recognized as a fundamental driver of economic growth and social progress.
The KASEDA Director General emphasized that this partnership marks just the beginning of a sustained effort to revolutionize energy access throughout the state.
In his closing remarks, Deputy Governor Malam Faruk Lawal Jobe, Sarkin Fulanin Jobe, underscored the collaborative spirit that defined the roundtable meeting.
He particularly commended the Rural Electrification Agency’s leadership for their proactive approach in facilitating the landmark gathering, noting that their support has been crucial in advancing Katsina State’s energy access initiatives.
The Deputy Governor highlighted the vital role of Renewable Energy Service Companies (RESCOs) and development partners in realizing the state’s vision for comprehensive energy access. “The expertise and commitment demonstrated by our partners today reinforces our confidence in achieving rapid transformation of Katsina State’s energy landscape,” Jobe affirmed.
The Katsina Deputy Governor also acknowledged the instrumental role of the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA) and CETAPI in orchestrating the successful transition from initial discussions to concrete partnerships.
“Today marks not just the signing of an agreement, but the beginning of a transformative journey toward energy sufficiency for all Katsina State residents,” he stated.
Dignitaries at the occasion include Rural Electrification Agency (REA) Team led by the Managing Director/CEO, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of Nigerian Communications Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida; Chief of Staff to Katsina Governor, Hon. Abdullahi Jabiru Tsauri; Principal Private Secretary to Katsina Governor, Hon. Abdullahi Aliyu Turaji; Special Assistant to Katsina Governor on Power, Hon. Hafiz Ibrahim Ahmed, Engr Abubakar Matazu Mutawallen Matazu, MD of Katsina State Rural Electricity Board and Chief Economic Adviser to Katsina Governor, Khalil Nur Khalil among other top stakeholders.
Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State
24th October, 2024
