ABUJA/Nigeria: Delta State is on the brink of a major economic shift as the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori-led administration intensifies efforts to expand renewable energy access, with thousands of jobs projected to emerge across rural communities.
The assurance came from the Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, who said the state’s renewable energy programme is designed to empower small businesses, strengthen schools and hospitals, and integrate rural dwellers into the economic mainstream.
Aniagwu spoke in Abuja on Wednesday at the 14th State-by-State Roundtable Engagement between the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and stakeholders from Delta, where he highlighted that the state’s energy roadmap would bridge the gap between urban and rural development.
“Once rural communities are electrified through solar and other renewable energy sources, barbers, hairdressers, vulcanizers, dry cleaners, and other entrepreneurs will no longer be trapped in the cycle of buying and repairing generators. That savings goes directly into expanding their businesses and creating jobs. It’s a direct link between clean energy and prosperity,” Aniagwu said.
He stressed that improved power supply would transform social services, particularly schools and health facilities, many of which currently struggle without electricity. According to him, reliable energy would make libraries, laboratories, theatres, and pharmacies more functional.
“Drugs and vaccines will be preserved, hospitals will run smoothly, and schools will become centres of learning and innovation,” Aniagwu explained.
The commissioner maintained that off-grid renewable solutions were smarter and cheaper for hard-to-reach communities, as mini-grids would cut the cost of transmission infrastructure and reduce vandalism of power facilities.
Aniagwu disclosed that Delta State had already begun deploying renewable energy in select hospitals, with more projects lined up as investors showed interest in partnering with the government.
“Renewable energy is not just about light, it’s about jobs, safety, and inclusiveness,” he said. “With this initiative, our rural brothers and sisters will no longer be spectators in the economy but active participants in building a stronger Delta.”
