The Federal Government has reached out to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for potential co-financing support in executing the $750 million Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) Project. This initiative, implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), aims to extend renewable energy access to 17.5 million Nigerians, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, made the request during a high-level delegation visit to Japan, where Nigerian energy stakeholders engaged with Japanese industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to strengthen bilateral cooperation. The three-day visit focused on improving Nigeria’s power infrastructure, enhancing grid reliability, and exploring innovative energy solutions.
A statement by the REA on Saturday revealed that Nigeria seeks $200 million from JICA as part of a broader strategy to attract over $1 billion in private sector investments and development financing. The discussions also explored short-term measures for grid reliability, long-term collaboration opportunities, and investments in Nigeria’s energy sector.
During the visit, the delegation gained insights into Japan’s energy market structure, policy frameworks, and operational models. Key highlights included:
- Grid Reliability Measures: Leveraging Japan’s expertise to enhance Nigeria’s national grid stability.
- DARES Project Co-Financing: Advancing JICA’s support for expanding energy access to boost economic growth and sustainability.
- Long-Term Collaboration: Establishing a foundation for technology transfer, capacity building, and further energy investments.
The delegation also studied Japan’s advanced electricity load dispatching systems, generation and distribution coordination models, and grid optimization strategies, which could help refine Nigeria’s ongoing power sector reforms.
A bilateral meeting with Japan’s Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry focused on enhancing economic and energy sector cooperation. Discussions also covered energy trading and market operations, drawing lessons from Japan’s power exchange market to improve Nigeria’s electricity pricing, market efficiency, and competitiveness.
Technical site visits provided firsthand exposure to Japanese innovations, including:
- DAIKIN Solution Plaza: Showcasing energy-efficient cooling solutions.
- Tokyo Electric Power Company: Exploring grid management strategies and resilience planning.
The Nigerian delegation included key figures such as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Power, Mahmuda Mamman, Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, Engr. Sanusi Garba, Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria, Sule Abdulazeez, and Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Abba Aliyu.
The visit underscores the government’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s power sector through strategic global partnerships, innovation, and policy-driven implementation. Minister Adelabu expressed gratitude to JICA for facilitating the mission and reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to leveraging these engagements for a more resilient and sustainable energy sector.
