The Rivers State Government has commenced the construction of an 11.9-megawatt peak (MWp) solar mini-grid in Bolo, Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area, in a move aimed at expanding electricity access, stimulating economic activities and accelerating the state’s transition to clean energy.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on Friday, Governor Siminalayi Fubara said reliable and affordable electricity remains fundamental to sustainable development, stressing that no community can achieve meaningful economic growth without stable power.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, the governor described the project, being executed in partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), as more than an infrastructure investment.
According to him, the solar mini-grid represents an investment in the future of Bolo, with the capacity to transform businesses, schools, healthcare facilities and the local economy.
Fubara expressed confidence that the project would boost electricity supply, stimulate small and medium-scale enterprises, create employment opportunities, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, promote environmental sustainability and improve the quality of life of residents, particularly women and other vulnerable groups.
He commended the Rural Electrification Agency and its development partners for collaborating with the Rivers State Government to deliver the project, describing the partnership as a demonstration of what can be achieved when governments and institutions work together to improve citizens’ welfare.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that no community is left behind in the state’s drive towards sustainable electrification and urged residents of Bolo to take ownership of the project by safeguarding the facilities, supporting contractors and cooperating with all stakeholders throughout the construction phase.
He expressed optimism that the community’s support would ensure the successful completion and long-term sustainability of the project.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Electrification Agency, Abba Aliyu, said the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises improved electricity access, economic growth and job creation.
Aliyu disclosed that the agency had completed 16 renewable energy projects across Rivers State and has another 17 projects in the pipeline, positioning the state as one of Nigeria’s leading beneficiaries of clean energy investments.
Permanent Secretary, Rivers State Ministry of Power, Engr. Nicholas Iminabo Wokoma, explained that the solar mini-grid would complement the existing 33kV distribution network, providing Bolo community with a more reliable and efficient electricity supply.
He described the project as a scalable model that could be replicated in other unserved and underserved communities across the state, while commending the REA for partnering with the Rivers State Government to strengthen the state’s energy infrastructure.
Earlier, Chairman of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area, Vincent Nemieboka, praised the state government for selecting Bolo as the host community, describing the project as a sustainable energy solution that would guarantee affordable and clean electricity for residents.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Bolo Se Council of Chiefs, Chief Augustus Daddie Oforibokaka, expressed appreciation to the Federal and Rivers State governments for bringing the project to the kingdom.
He said the solar mini-grid would not only address the community’s longstanding electricity challenges but also improve access to potable water, stimulate economic activities and accelerate development.
The traditional leader, on behalf of the monarch, the Council of Chiefs and the people of Bolo Kingdom, thanked Governor Fubara and the Ogu/Bolo council chairman for facilitating the project, describing it as a landmark intervention for the community.
