Zamfara Is Ideal for Solar Energy Projects – Governor Lawal at REA Strategic Roundtable

Governor Dauda Lawal has declared Zamfara State as one of Nigeria’s most promising locations for solar power investment, thanks to its year-round high-intensity sunlight and untapped renewable energy potential.

Speaking during a Strategic Roundtable hosted by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) in Abuja, Governor Lawal emphasized the state’s strategic position for hosting solar farms, mini-grids, and off-grid power solutions. The roundtable was part of REA’s nationwide engagement with stakeholders to boost energy access and drive rural electrification across Nigeria.

According to a statement from the Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the meeting focused on revitalizing Zamfara’s power sector through partnerships, innovation, and sustainable energy systems. A key highlight of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Zamfara State and REA, signaling a renewed commitment to tackling energy poverty in the state.

Zamfara’s Power Sector: From Neglect to Transformation

Governor Lawal detailed the harsh realities his administration inherited, noting that many Local Government Areas (LGAs) were without power for over a decade due to decayed infrastructure, vandalism, and prolonged disconnection from the national grid.

“We met a state gripped by energy poverty,” the governor said. “But rather than play the blame game, we took bold steps to change the story. We launched one of Nigeria’s most ambitious state-led transformer deployment programs, installing over 150 units across rural and urban communities.”

The state also partnered with Kaduna Electric to restore power to six LGAs, with reconnection efforts ongoing in seven more.

Solar, Hydro, and Agricultural Synergy

Governor Lawal stated that Zamfara’s renewable energy potential is unmatched. With consistent sunlight and the largely untapped Bakalori Dam offering hydropower prospects, Zamfara is poised for hybrid energy systems that can power rural and semi-urban areas sustainably.

He highlighted the state’s strength in agriculture—ranking among Nigeria’s top producers of millet, sorghum, soybeans, and groundnuts—but emphasized the need for reliable energy to enable agro-processing, storage, and value addition.

“Energy is the missing link,” he said. “With power, we can transform our agrarian economy into a hub of rural industrialization.”

The governor also mentioned the Gusau International and Cargo Airport, nearing completion, which is expected to be Nigeria’s first airport powered by at least 50% renewable energy.

REA Commits to Expanding Rural Electrification

REA Managing Director, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, reiterated the agency’s support for Zamfara’s energy transition. He noted that the REA has successfully mapped out underserved communities across Nigeria, identifying areas lacking electricity and their specific energy needs.

“This data will help state governments, RESCOs, and financial institutions deploy targeted solutions to close Nigeria’s energy gap,” Aliyu stated.

The roundtable ended with interactive sessions, feedback from stakeholders, and renewed commitments to green energy expansion in Zamfara State and beyond

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