FG, Jigawa Govt Sign 7MW Power Deal for Industrial Clusters

The Federal Government and the Jigawa State Government have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for 7MW of power to be delivered to seven Agro-Industrial Clusters across the country.

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) signed the deal with the Jigawa State Government, the Nigerian Commodity Exchange (NCX), and Astound Power Limited at the Jigawa Investment Summit (J-Invest 2026). The summit aimed to discuss strategic pathways for unlocking sustainable economic growth across Jigawa State, with Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima officially declaring the conference open.

Under the agreement, the REA will deploy the energy infrastructure to power irrigation systems and processing facilities, while the NCX will issue NCX-backed warehouse receipts to eligible farmers and aggregators for export. This move aims to strengthen food security, create sustainable employment, and unlock greater economic value for local farmers and rural host communities.

Managing Director of the REA, Dr Abba Aliyu, emphasized that reliable electricity remains one of the most critical foundations for attracting investment, driving industrialisation, and generating jobs across Nigeria. He noted that the MOU reflects a shared conviction that clean energy and agriculture must be integrated to effectively address these issues.

The REA will deploy the energy infrastructure to seven Agro-Industrial Clusters across Jigawa, Taraba, Kaduna, Kebbi, Ekiti, Osun, and Ebonyi states. This project will provide a boost to the country's agricultural sector and contribute to the nation's food security.

So what does this mean for the people directly affected by this project? It means that local farmers and rural communities will benefit from improved access to electricity, irrigation systems, and processing facilities. This will enable them to increase their productivity and earnings, ultimately contributing to the nation's economic growth.

"One of the strongest signals any government can send is a clear commitment to creating an environment where businesses can thrive," Dr Abba Aliyu said.

The project will also create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the regions where it will be implemented. This is a positive development for the country's agricultural sector and a step in the right direction for achieving the nation's economic goals.

And for those who are wondering how this will be funded, the REA and the partners involved have not disclosed the specific financial details of the project. However, it is expected that the cost will be borne by the investors and stakeholders involved in the project.

The success of this project will depend on various factors, including the timely delivery of the energy infrastructure and the effective management of the project. But with the commitment of the REA, the Jigawa State Government, and the partners involved, this project has the potential to make a significant impact on the nation's agricultural sector and the lives of local farmers and rural communities.

The project will be implemented in collaboration with the states of Jigawa, Taraba, Kaduna, Kebbi, Ekiti, Osun, and Ebonyi, with the REA serving as the lead agency. The project will be monitored and evaluated regularly to ensure its success and impact.

This is a significant development for the country's agricultural sector and a testament to the commitment of the government to improving the lives of local farmers and rural communities.