In a major push to expand clean energy access and strengthen security infrastructure across Nigeria’s prison system, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has signed a strategic deal with the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS). The move aims to boost power supply to correctional facilities, support vocational training for inmates, and improve operational efficiency.
The REA also inked agreements with 15 additional organisations and renewable energy providers to ramp up the deployment of green energy in underserved areas. The partnerships are expected to scale up solar-powered mini-grids and clean energy systems for rural communities, hospitals, and institutions across the country.
Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony in Abuja, REA’s CEO Abba Aliyu highlighted the agency’s growing portfolio of collaborations, citing past successes like its partnership with the Police Trust Fund which led to the development of smart police stations. He also mentioned a groundbreaking testing and simulation centre established in partnership with Chinese tech firm Huawei.
Aliyu revealed that over N100 billion in funding has been unlocked through First City Monument Bank (FCMB) for renewable energy companies (Rescos), alongside a $20 million facility from the International Finance Corporation (IFC). Four Rescos have already accessed the funds, pushing forward the deployment of solar solutions nationwide.
He noted that REA has active agreements with 13 state governments, facilitating the construction of around 200 mini-grids. In its latest move, the agency is including correctional facilities in upcoming power projects.
Executive Director of Technical Services at REA, Umar Umar, added that more than 160 megawatts of solar power have been installed in over 1,650 communities, powering healthcare centres and reaching over 6 million people.
The head of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Controller General Sylvester Nwakuche, praised the initiative as a breakthrough for prison reform. He emphasized that the move will support inmate rehabilitation and create learning and employment opportunities—particularly vital for the over 81,000 people currently incarcerated.
“This isn’t just about power; it’s about giving forgotten communities a real chance to be part of national progress,” Nwakuche said.
The partnership also aligns with Nigeria’s long-term energy goals, including achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2060 and universal electricity access by 2030.
Sa’ad Hamidu, head of NIRSAL Plc, another partner in the initiative, said the rural economy stands to benefit significantly, especially in agriculture, productivity, and job creation.
The agreements mark a bold step in Nigeria’s clean energy journey, bringing together public institutions and private firms to drive sustainable development across critical sectors.
