Yemisi Izuora
Key Nigerian off-grid developers presented their potentials at a Decentralised Renewable Energy (DRE) Developer Forum jointly organised by All On and Rural Electrification Agency (REA).
At the forum no fewer than 300 professionals from a diverse range of off-grid developers from across Nigeria’s renewable ecosystem that participated showcased their efficiency in the renewable energy space.
The hybrid forum, held on Wednesday, April, 23, 2025, provided developers and investors with an in-depth insight to the World Bank’s Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) Project-implemented under the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), including guidance on the application process, funding requirements, and technical preparedness criteria.
The event saw impressive participation, with over 30 DRE developers represented
physically, and an additional 300+stakeholders joining virtually from across the country, and even the globe.
The strong turnout reflects the tremendous interest in the DARES project and the potential it holds for accelerating off-grid energy access in underserved communities.
Chief Executive Officer, All On, Caroline Eboumbou, said: “We’re proud to have convened such a dynamic group of developers and stakeholders who are committed to expanding clean energy access. The DARES program is a critical step towards bridging the gap to energy access and we are thankful for the REA’s participation in today’s important workshop. We’re excited to support the ecosystem in leveraging it to scale impact.”
Managing Director/CEO of REA,Abba Abubakar Aliyu, emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration: “Delivering universal energy access requires more than just funding-it demands deep, sustained collaboration across the public and private sectors.
This forum demonstrates what’s possible when we work together to equip developers with the knowledge and partnerships they need to succeed. REA remains committed to fostering these kinds of strategic engagements that move the sector forward”
Head, Nigeria Electrification Programme, Olufemi Akinyelure, provided additional context on the project’s role in achieving national electrification goals: “DARES represents the next phase in Nigeria’s energy access story, one that shifts power to the states, opens doors for
developers and puts underserved communities first. Forums like this ensure we’re not just rolling out infrastructure, but building an ecosystem of trust, readiness and long-term impact”
The forum also featured interactive sessions and Q&A segments that gave developers direct access to REA’s technical team, enhancing clarity and preparedness for participation in the upcoming call for proposals under DARES.
The forum served as a platform for knowledge-sharing, networking, and alignment between the public and private sectors, reinforcing the shared goal of achieving universal energy access through innovative, decentralized solutions.