REA, Jigawa, NCX seal deal to power 7 agro-industrial hubs with 7MW of electricity

In a move to boost agricultural productivity, industrialisation and rural economic development, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Jigawa State Government, the Nigerian Commodity Exchange (NCX), and Astound Power Limited to deliver seven megawatts (MW) of electricity to seven agro-industrial clusters across Nigeria.

The agreement, signed at the Jigawa Investment Summit (J-Invest 2026), will support a multi-state public-private partnership spanning Jigawa, Taraba, Kaduna, Kebbi, Ekiti, Osun and Ebonyi states.

Under the partnership, the REA will deploy power infrastructure to energise irrigation systems and agro-processing facilities, while the NCX will provide warehouse receipt financing to eligible farmers and aggregators, enhancing access to export markets and improving agricultural value chains.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, the Managing Director of the REA, Dr. Abba Aliyu, described reliable electricity as the bedrock of industrialisation, investment attraction and job creation.

He said the initiative demonstrated a shared commitment to integrating clean energy with agriculture to strengthen food security, create sustainable livelihoods and unlock greater economic value for farmers and rural communities.

“One of the strongest signals any government can send is a clear commitment to creating an environment where businesses can thrive,” he said.

The Jigawa Investment Summit brought together policymakers, investors, development partners and private sector leaders to explore strategies for accelerating sustainable economic growth in the state.

The summit was officially declared open by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima.