The All On Akeddei Community Project in Bayelsa State is set to deliver an estimated 1,058 electricity connections to small businesses, artisans, and service providers within the community.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the organisation, Henry Ureh, disclosed this on Tuesday in a statement signed by the company’s External Media Consultant, Bolatito Adebola.

He noted that the organisation plans to commence the second phase of the initiative soon, adding that the community has closely followed the project, not only because of its promise but also due to the direct involvement of many residents.

According to him, the atmosphere in Akeddei Community has shifted noticeably in recent months.

He explained that, since All On awarded a $532,828 grant to Darway Coast Ltd for the development of a 195kWp solar-hybrid minigrid, steady progress has become a source of growing optimism among residents.

“The installation of equipment, training of local workers, and visible progress at the project site have all signalled that reliable electricity, long anticipated by the community, is finally within reach,” he said.

The CEO added that developments in nearby Oweikorogha have also shaped expectations in Akeddei.

Ureh noted that when All On completed the first phase of its Niger Delta Electrification Project, the 80kWp hybrid minigrid exceeded its target of 430 connections, delivering power to 451 homes and businesses.

“The arrival of steady power transformed daily life almost immediately.

“Businesses extended their operating hours, households reduced reliance on generators, and community services such as schools and clinics became more reliable,” he said.

He further stated that local youths have been engaged in construction and site preparation, while Darway Coast Ltd has commenced training of community-based operators who will manage technical and administrative operations after the minigrid becomes operational.

“But the hope goes far beyond employment. Residents are looking ahead to the impact of reliable electricity on their businesses, children’s education, and overall quality of life.

“Fishermen are considering cold storage options; shop owners are planning to power freezers and lighting; and students are envisioning evening study hours without the noise and fumes of generators.

“Health workers are also anticipating stable electricity to store vaccines and operate essential equipment,” he added.

Ureh said that the project would strengthen livelihoods in underserved communities across the Niger Delta, noting that the initiative aligns strongly with the mission of Darway Coast Ltd.

“As a company, we are committed to delivering affordable and reliable electricity that drives economic growth while safeguarding the interests of our customers and partners.

“We are confident that beneficiaries in Akeddei will experience measurable improvements in their quality of life, unlocking broader economic opportunities for the community,” he said.

He added that as Akeddei approaches the final stages of installation, with commissioning expected in the second quarter of 2026, the community’s anticipation is grounded in visible progress.

“They have seen firsthand the transformation in Oweikorogha. They have watched neighbouring communities benefit from reliable and affordable power, and now they are preparing for a similar change,” he said.

Ureh emphasised that the Akeddei minigrid project is not built on wishful thinking but on tangible progress, collective effort, and proven outcomes demonstrating how access to clean, reliable energy can transform lives.

According to him, All On Partnerships for Energy Access, an independent impact investing company seeded by Shell, is focused on accelerating the closing of Nigeria’s energy access gap.

He added that the company provides debt and equity financing, alongside non-financial support, to Nigerian energy companies aligned with its mission.