On 10 June 2026 at HOTEL PRESIDENTIAL BY AMBER, Independence Layout, Enugu, the Enugu State Government took a decisive step toward universal electricity access with the formal signing of grant agreements under the Renewable Energy Development for State Electricity Market (REDSEM) Project. The ceremony brought together development partners, government officials, regulators, project developers, members of the press, traditional rulers, and community representatives, reinforcing a shared commitment to transforming the State’s electricity market. Hon. Enyinna Ogbonna, Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, described the signing as a milestone in Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s vision to build a modern, inclusive, and sustainable electricity market that drives economic growth and improves quality of life for Ndi Enugu. Supported by the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP), the European Union (EU), and the German Government through GIZ Nigeria & ECOWAS, hashtag#REDSEM will deploy solar mini grids in four underserved communities: Okpatu (Udi), Ijekpe (Igbo‑Eze), Awgu‑Nta (Awgu), and Ugbawka (Nkanu East). These systems will power homes, schools, health centres, farms, and businesses, unlocking opportunities in entrepreneurship, healthcare delivery, education, and agribusiness. Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Secretary to the State Government, emphasized that security and electricity are core drivers of any economy, affirmed the Governor’s commitment to extend electrification beyond urban centres, urged strict adherence to timelines, and called on stakeholders to protect installed assets. The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH‑NESP team, led by Joshua Yari Garba with Chimere Victor Ochiegbu, Larai Udofia, and Faustina Ubaka presented technical details, commended the State and agencies, and encouraged host communities to own and protect the mini-grid assets for sustainability. Engr. Aminu Dankaka Adam (MNSE) (GOPA‑INTEC) outlined the six‑phase, milestone‑based disbursement framework. Mr. Chijioke M. Okonkwo, Chairman/CEO EERC NG, noted in his critical regulatory presentation that roughly 36% of residents remain underserved and explained how grant support will reduce developer costs, lower tariffs, and enable smart metering. The signing marks the start of implementation. Stakeholders pledged collaborative action to ensure the socio‑economic benefits of reliable electricity reach host communities.
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