FG, REA Seal Landmark MoU to Solar-Power Grazing Reserves, Boost Livestock Development

By Onwe Wisdom Pan Afric Reporters

The Federal Government has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deploy solar-powered grids across grazing reserves nationwide, in a bold move to transform Nigeria’s livestock sector under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The MoU, signed on Friday, 12th September 2025 in Abuja, formalises a strategic partnership between the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).

Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha according to a press release jointly e-signed by Ben. Bem Goong, Director of Information and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, and Ibrahim Muntari, Director of Promotion, Information and Outreach, Rural Electrification Agency, on 12th September 2025. said the initiative signals a “new era of sustainable development” for pastoral communities. He explained that rehabilitated grazing reserves will now be powered by renewable energy, unlocking opportunities in irrigation, water supply, fodder production, education, healthcare, and job creation.

“Today, we are not just signing a document; we are laying the foundation for a more secure, productive, and peaceful future,” the Minister stated.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Chinyere Ijeoma Akujobi according to the report stressed that reliable energy is central to livestock transformation. “From the Renewed Hope Villages to grazing reserves and infrastructure projects, none can function effectively without energy. This MoU is therefore a major milestone in achieving our goals,” she noted.

REA Managing Director, Abba Abubakar Aliyu in the same vein described the partnership as “a marriage of convenience,” highlighting its role in energising livestock clusters, schools, abattoirs, and markets. According to him, the solar grids will not only strengthen the livestock value chain but also stimulate rural economies and create jobs in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The pilot phase of the programme will begin in Wawa-Zange (Gombe State), Wase (Plateau State), Gongoshin (Adamawa State), and Kawu in Bwari Area Council of the FCT, before scaling nationwide.

The joint initiative is expected to ease resource-based conflicts, improve rural infrastructure, and enhance food security through sustainable livestock development.