Group Hails REA Boss Abba Aliyu as Northern States Record Widespread Electration

By Our Correspondent

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has declared its solidarity with the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu, citing what it described as his impactful leadership and significant strides in expanding rural electrification across Nigeria.

In a world press statement issued in Abuja on Monday, the youth group said its decision followed extensive consultations with Northern elders, youth leaders, and key stakeholders across the region.

According to the Assembly, Aliyu has demonstrated “uncommon commitment, transparency, and a results-driven leadership style” since assuming office, accelerating the implementation of renewable energy and rural electrification projects nationwide.

The group particularly commended the REA’s reported expansion of electricity access to underserved communities, noting that several projects under the current leadership have extended beyond rural households to critical public institutions such as hospitals, universities, and other essential facilities.

These interventions, it said, have contributed to improved healthcare delivery, enhanced educational outcomes, and increased economic productivity.

The Assembly further stated that available records and stakeholder observations indicate that Aliyu is the first head of the Agency to oversee electrification projects across all states in Northern Nigeria while simultaneously expanding implementation nationwide.

“These achievements deserve recognition and continued support,” the statement read, adding that the agency’s efforts align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in the areas of energy access, economic inclusion, and national development.

As a youth-driven movement, the group called on Northern youths and young Nigerians across the country, as well as civil society organisations and community leaders, to support ongoing efforts to deepen rural electrification and sustainable energy development.

The Assembly emphasised that energy access remains a critical driver of economic growth and social transformation, urging stakeholders to prioritise unity and constructive engagement in advancing national development goals.

It also reaffirmed its support for the leadership of the Rural Electrification Agency, encouraging Aliyu to remain focused and committed to expanding electricity access to rural communities, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and businesses across Nigeria.

The statement which was signed by the President of the Assembly, Ambassador Abdul Danbature concluded by saying,

“Together, we can light up Nigeria and empower our people.”