Delta State is set to witness a major economic transformation as its push for renewable energy gathers momentum, with thousands of jobs it is expected to birth across rural communities of the state.
This assurance came from the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, who declared that the renewable energy initiative of the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration would empower small businesses, energize schools and hospitals, and integrate rural dwellers into the state’s economic mainstream.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 14th State-by-State Roundtable Engagement between the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and Delta stakeholders, held Wednesday in Abuja, Aniagwu said the state’s energy roadmap was designed to bridge the development gap between urban and rural areas.
“Once rural communities are electrified through solar and other renewable energy sources, barbers, hairdressers, vulcanizers, dry cleaners, and other entrepreneurs will no longer be trapped in the cycle of buying and repairing generators.
“That savings goes directly into expanding their businesses and creating jobs. It’s a direct link between clean energy and prosperity,” Aniagwu explained.
He added that reliable power would also transform social services. Schools and health facilities, many of which currently operate in darkness, would become functional, enabling libraries, laboratories, theatres, and pharmacies to serve their communities effectively.
“Drugs and vaccines will be preserved, hospitals will run smoothly, and schools will become centres of learning and innovation,” he said.
The Commissioner stressed that off-grid solutions were smarter and cheaper for far-flung communities, as mini-grids would eliminate the need for expensive transmission infrastructure and reduce vandalism of power lines and transformers.
Aniagwu further disclosed that Delta had already begun deploying renewable energy in select hospitals, while more projects were in the pipeline as investors expressed readiness to partner with the state.
“Renewable energy is not just about light, it’s about jobs, safety, and inclusiveness,” he stated.
“With this initiative, our rural brothers and sisters will no longer be spectators in the economy but active participants in building a stronger Delta.”
