Canada, REA explore partnership to expand renewable energy access in Nigeria

By Firdaus Jibril

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the Canadian High Commission have begun discussions on expanding collaboration to improve sustainable energy access across Nigeria.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the REA, Abba Aliyu, disclosed this after a meeting with the Acting High Commissioner of Canada to Nigeria, David Sproule.

According to Aliyu, the discussions focused on strengthening cooperation across the renewable energy sector, including improving data-driven planning, increasing access to financing through Canadian financial institutions, and attracting more Canadian renewable energy developers into Nigeria’s Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) ecosystem.

He said both sides also explored opportunities to boost local manufacturing and build technical capacity through partnerships with Canadian renewable energy training institutions.

Aliyu noted that developing local skills, technology and industry would be critical to achieving universal energy access, alongside investments in infrastructure.

He added that growing interest from international partners reflects increasing confidence in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector, saying the country is moving beyond potential to delivering projects.

According to him, the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda has created a policy environment that supports investment, strengthens institutions and encourages greater private sector participation in the energy sector.

Aliyu expressed appreciation to Sproule and the Canadian High Commission for the engagement, saying he looked forward to translating the discussions into partnerships that would deliver lasting benefits for Nigerians.