Gov Alia plans energy commission to drive Benue investments

From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi

Benue State Governor Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia has disclosed plans to establish an Energy Commission to coordinate energy investments for the state.

Alia, who spoke at the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) Roundtable Engagement with Benue State, said the proposed Energy Commission would operate as a special, independent vehicle responsible for coordinating projects, mobilising capital, streamlining approvals, and ensuring the efficient deployment of investor funds.

The theme of the engagement was “From Strategy to Accelerating Private Investment in Benue State’s Renewable Energy Ecosystem.”

The governor said, “It will serve as the one-stop platform for energy investment in the state. The impact of these strategies will be transformative. Industrial zones and commercial enterprises will gain reliable electricity, reduce operational costs, and attract further investments.”

According to him, solar-powered schools and hospitals will enjoy uninterrupted services, strengthening education and healthcare delivery, while the expansion of electric vehicles, electric bikes, and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered transport would reduce emissions, foster a green mobility ecosystem, and create new economic opportunities.

Enumerating the gains, Governor Alia said the state would gain access to electricity that drives inclusion, productivity, and improved quality of life, create green jobs, deepen energy access, enhance climate resilience and position the state as a benchmark for energy-led industrial development in Nigeria.

“In developing our energy strategy, Benue has carefully studied Nigeria’s ongoing power sector reforms, particularly the decentralisation of electricity generation and distribution enabled by the Electricity Act, 2023.

“Rather than replicate existing national structures, we are deliberately adapting these reforms to suit Benue’s unique economic profile, industrial ambitions, and energy demand patterns.

“While the national grid remains important, the strategy acknowledges its limitations in meeting sub-national and industrial energy needs.

“Benue, therefore, is designing a complementary decentralised energy model, one that reduces dependence on the national grid and supports embedded and captive power solutions.”

On his part, the Managing Director of REA, Mr Abba Aliyu, said that under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, the agency got a $750 million project fund to develop 1,350 mini-grids to electrify 17.5 million Nigerians.

Aliyu further explained that the fund was also to develop 250 interconnected mini-grids and deploy over 10 million solar home systems, adding that the gathering was for Governor Alia to invite private investors to access the funds to achieve 100 per cent electrification in the state.

A Memorandum of Understanding, which had various remarks and commendations by many state officials, was also signed between Benue State and REA.