1MW Solar Hybrid Project Lights Up FCT
REA, Korea Commission 1MW Clean Energy Project in Rubochi, Ikwa
The Rural Electrification Agency (REA), in partnership with the Government of the Republic of Korea, has commissioned a 1MW combined-capacity clean energy project in Rubochi and Ikwa communities within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The commissioning, held on February 12, 2026, marks the delivery of a 900 kWp solar hybrid facility in Rubochi and a 100 kWp system in Ikwa under the Korean Energy Project (KEP). The intervention, comprising three mini-grids strategically deployed across the two communities, is now fully operational and delivering stable, round-the-clock electricity to homes, businesses, schools, healthcare centres, and commercial clusters.
The Korean Energy Project stands as one of the most impactful Official Development Assistance (ODA) initiatives supporting Nigeria’s drive toward universal energy access. Seamlessly implemented by the REA, the project reinforces the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding sustainable, community-driven electrification solutions.
In Rubochi, approximately 2,500 households and institutions are now connected to reliable power, while Ikwa has recorded 300 connections so far. The socio-economic impact is already evident: small businesses are extending operating hours, students are studying in safer, well-lit environments, healthcare services are more dependable, and local commerce is expanding — generating jobs and strengthening livelihoods.
Designed as a fully integrated energy solution, the project combines solar generation infrastructure, modern distribution networks, advanced metering systems, and household energy appliances including lighting points and sockets. This integrated approach ensures immediate productive use of electricity.
At the national level, REA has deployed an advanced energy management system at its headquarters, providing real-time operational oversight and enabling continuous technical support to the Renewable Energy Service Companies (RESCOs) responsible for operations and maintenance.
Through its Rural Electricity Users Cooperative Societies (REUCS) framework, REA worked closely with RESCO operators and community leaders to promote responsible energy use, enhance local ownership, and mitigate risks such as vandalism and energy inefficiency. The initiative benefited from strong community support, notably under the leadership of the Zaki of Rubochi.
The Honourable Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Chidi Amadi, commended REA for aligning its electrification efforts with the broader development objectives of the FCT administration.
Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to reducing energy poverty, the Honourable Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, represented by Permanent Secretary Engr. Mahmuda Mamman, emphasized that distributed renewable energy remains central to closing Nigeria’s access gap efficiently and sustainably.
“By leveraging innovation, public-private collaboration, and institutional coordination, we are strengthening grid resilience while expanding off-grid solutions. Our goal is reliable, affordable, and clean energy for all Nigerians,” he stated.
REA’s Managing Director/CEO, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, noted that the project goes beyond installed capacity.
“This intervention is not just about megawatts deployed. It is about livelihoods supported, emissions reduced, and local ecosystems strengthened,” he said.
Having enjoyed five months of stable electricity prior to the formal commissioning, the HRH Sa’Rubochiyi of Rubochi, Alhaji Muhammed Ibrahim, described the project as transformative.
“For years, unreliable power constrained our businesses, education, and essential services. This solar project has not only brought light but renewed hope for our people,” he said.
Representing the Korean Government, Namgoong Tak, Charge d’Affaires at the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration and commended REA’s dedication to successful implementation.
The Korean Energy Project demonstrates how strategic international partnerships can accelerate Nigeria’s electrification agenda while embedding sustainability, local ownership, and long-term viability. REA has called on residents of Rubochi and Ikwa to safeguard the infrastructure, use the electricity productively, and support systems that ensure .
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