The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), has formalised a strategic partnership to deploy solar-powered grids across grazing reserves in Nigeria.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed on Friday 12th September 2025 in Abuja, marks a milestone in the government’s efforts to revamp the livestock sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, stressing that it will transform pastoral livelihoods and unlock the potential of Nigeria’s grazing reserves.
“Today, we are not just signing a document; we are ushering in a new era of sustainable development. For too long, the immense potential of Nigeria’s 417 grazing reserves has been hindered by lack of infrastructure. By providing solar-powered grids to rehabilitated reserves, we are laying the foundation for a more secure, productive, and peaceful future,” he stated.
The Minister explained that the intervention would deliver broad benefits to rural communities and livestock keepers. According to him, “the provision of clean, renewable energy will power irrigation systems, improve year-round access to fodder and water, enhance education and healthcare, strengthen security, and create jobs. Millions of pastoralists and livestock keepers across the country will benefit from this intervention.”
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi, also stressed the importance of energy in achieving sustainable livestock development.
She said, “All our planned interventions across the livestock value chain rely on reliable power supply. From the Renewed Hope Villages to the grazing reserves under rehabilitation and the infrastructure we are putting in place, none can function effectively without energy. This MoU with the REA therefore represents a significant milestone in achieving our goals.”
On his part, REA Managing Director, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, described the initiative as “a marriage of convenience” and assured of the Agency’s commitment to energising livestock clusters.
“Our mandate is to provide electricity to unserved and underserved communities. Partnering with the Ministry of Livestock Development allows us to deploy solar infrastructure to grazing reserves with schools, clinics, abattoirs, and markets.
This will catalyse livestock development, stimulate rural economies, and create job opportunities in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President,” he said.
The pilot phase of the program will begin in Wawa-Zange in Gombe State, Wase in Plateau State, Gongoshin in Adamawa State, and Kawu in the Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory before expanding nationwide.