Umo Eno 24-Hour Power plan advances with REA MOU to electrify Akwa Ibom’s underserved communities and boost industrial development

Umo Eno 24-Hour Power plans are gaining momentum following the signing of a strategic memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to provide round-the-clock electricity across Akwa Ibom State.

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Governor Umo Eno made the announcement after returning from a working visit to the United Kingdom, revealing that the agreement—signed during the REA Roundtable in Abuja—will address power challenges in underserved and unserved areas, especially those outside the national grid.

“It buttresses the fact that we must give Akwa Ibomites a 24/7 reliable power supply,” Eno told reporters at Victor Attah International Airport.

The governor said the upcoming Akwa Ibom Electricity Power Summit, scheduled for September 18 and 19, will lay the groundwork for implementing off-grid and mini-grid energy solutions in collaboration with the REA.

“REA has funding to bring power to these communities,” Eno said, emphasising the state’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

The REA, a federal agency, has led Nigeria’s charge in deploying solar-powered mini-grids, improving electricity access in rural communities with little or no connection to the national power infrastructure.

The Umo Eno 24-Hour Power initiative is seen as pivotal to industrialisation andeconomic growth in Akwa Ibom—a state positioning itself as a hub for manufacturing, agro-processing, and digital innovation.

Reliable electricity is expected to:

• Cut diesel generator dependence
• Attract new investments
• Lower production costs for businesses
• Create jobs and improve quality of life

During his UK trip, Eno met with British-based boxing champion Moses Itauma and Mayor of Islington, Utiofon Jackson—both of Akwa Ibom descent.

“These two have excelled. They are role models whose stories must inspire our youths,” he said, while urging young people to “embrace hard work and the true Akwa Ibom spirit.”

This aligns with the governor’s youth empowerment strategy, which ties personal achievement to the state’s broader development agenda.

Eno noted that beyond physical projects, his administration is committed to institutional reforms that ensure sustainability. “We are building systems that outlive administrations,” he stated.

The administration continues to support initiatives like:

• Local Government Transparency Programs
• Community Development Charters
• Issue-Based Planning

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These tools aim to foster citizen participation, accountability, and results-driven governance.