The Federal Government has commissioned a 581 kWp interconnected solar mini-grid system with a 1.4 MW battery storage system in Oke-Oyi Community, Ilorin East Local Government Area of Kwara State. This project aims to provide steady and reliable electricity to rural communities. The initiative was delivered under the Interconnected Mini-Grid Acceleration Scheme (IMAS) and supported by the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP).
The project was made possible through the combined backing of the European Union, the Federal Republic of Germany, and other development partners, including UNICEF. The extended battery capacity enables the mini-grid to power the community throughout the night. This development reaffirms the Federal Government's commitment to universal energy access.
The Minister of Power, who was represented by Tegbe, described IMAS as a model for how international partnerships should work. He noted that it leverages public funding to attract private developers, establishes clear market rules, and builds long-term commercial viability rather than dependence on perpetual subsidies.
The Minister urged the people of Oke-Oyi to guard the newly commissioned assets against vandalism and criminal interference. He described the mini-grid as an investment built for their benefit and the prosperity of generations to come. The Minister stated that as the community is energized, businesses will be empowered, opportunities will be created, and livelihoods will be improved.
The Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu, said Oke-Oyi showed how interconnected mini-grids can combine distributed renewable energy with existing distribution networks. This approach aims to improve supply, attract private investment, and support economic activity. Aliyu stated that the agency is focused on scaling such models through stronger financing, regulatory, and institutional frameworks.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, represented by the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, commended the visible impact of the Federal Government's power sector reforms across the state. He noted that the project highlighted the significance of curbing rural-urban migration. The Governor stated that since the Minister of Power came on board, the state has been enjoying stable electricity.
The Oke-Oyi mini-grid, which is set to power 1,800 businesses and households, adds to a growing portfolio of rural and off-grid electrification projects delivered under the Renewed Hope Agenda. The government continues to expand access, strengthen energy security, and advance Nigeria's transition towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the community and contribute to Nigeria's energy goals.
Key points
- The Federal Government has commissioned a 581 kWp solar mini-grid system with a 1.4 MW battery storage system in Oke-Oyi Community, Kwara State.
- The project aims to provide steady and reliable electricity to rural communities and was delivered under the Interconnected Mini-Grid Acceleration Scheme (IMAS).
- The mini-grid is expected to power 1,800 businesses and households in the community.
