By Abasi Ita
The South-South Development Commission (SSDC) has formalized a strategic partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to accelerate electricity access and promote sustainable development across the South-South region.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed over the weekend at the REA headquarters in Abuja.
At the signing ceremony, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the SSDC, Ms. Usoro Akpabio, described the collaboration as a key milestone in unlocking economic growth in the region. She stressed that electricity is the backbone of development, noting that without stable and reliable power, meaningful socio-economic progress would remain out of reach.
“Through this partnership, we aim to expand electricity access to underserved communities, enhance productivity, stimulate job creation, and improve living standards across the South-South zone,” Akpabio said.
The Managing Director and CEO of REA, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, hailed the agreement as a landmark achievement. He explained that the MoU provides a framework for both agencies to jointly develop and implement projects that will bridge the electricity gap in rural and peri-urban communities.
Aliyu also commended SSDC’s proactive approach to development, emphasizing the need for institutions to explore innovative funding mechanisms beyond government subventions. He noted that REA has diversified its revenue streams to ensure sustainable and efficient project delivery nationwide.
Sir Marcus Nle Eji, Executive Director of Projects at SSDC, reassured the REA of the Commission’s commitment to the partnership, pledging full support for the execution of all joint initiatives.
The MoU is expected to establish a robust funding and implementation framework that will drive critical power infrastructure projects and accelerate inclusive socio-economic development in the South-South region.
Observers say the partnership represents a significant step towards resolving the region’s long-standing electricity challenges and positioning it for sustained growth.