The Rural Electrification Agency (REA), in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), is working to integrate Nigeria’s electricity infrastructure with telecommunications networks to improve digital access and service reliability in underserved rural communities. The initiative was disclosed by REA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Abba Aliyu, at the Rural Connectivity Summit (RuralConnect 2.0), organised by Business Metrics Limited in Lagos, to address connectivity challenges and expand access to digital opportunities through infrastructure integration and pilot projects.
Reliable Electricity Key to Rural Connectivity
Aliyu, who was represented by the agency’s Executive Director of Technical Services, Umar Umar, said Nigeria has more than 11,000 rural telecommunications base stations, many of which depend on diesel-powered generators to remain operational.
He estimated that more than 40 million litres of diesel are consumed monthly to power a significant number of these facilities, highlighting the need for more reliable and sustainable energy sources.
“Reliable electricity is the enabling infrastructure for rural connectivity,” Aliyu stated, emphasising the importance of a stable power supply in expanding telecommunications services to communities with limited network access.
REA and NCC Develop Integration Plans
According to Aliyu, the REA and NCC have progressed from mapping rural mini-grids and telecommunications base stations to assessing business models and preparing pilot projects.
The proposed projects will involve telecommunications operators, tower companies and mini-grid developers to explore practical ways of supplying electricity to rural network facilities and improving service delivery.
The REA also highlighted its achievements under the Nigeria Electrification Project, reporting that approximately 380 grant agreements had been signed, more than 150 hybrid solar mini-grids commissioned and about 1.45 million solar home systems deployed.
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The proposed integration could reduce reliance on diesel generators, improve network reliability and help extend digital services to underserved communities. Beyond stronger telephone and internet connections, the initiative could create new opportunities for rural entrepreneurs, support access to education and essential information, and enable more people to participate in Nigeria’s growing digital economy. For the initiative to deliver lasting results, the REA and NCC must ensure that rural communities are prioritised, implementation remains transparent and progress is regularly communicated to the public.
