Abuja: The Akwa Ibom Government has launched the Nigeria Solar for Health Project (NISHP) in a bid to address the challenges stemming from inconsistent power supply in the health sector. Gov. Umo Eno, during the state launch in Uyo, highlighted that this initiative will be carried out in collaboration with the European Union.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Gov. Eno, represented by Deputy Governor Sen. Akon Enyaenyi, emphasized the project’s role in realizing the state’s vision for universal, reliable, and sustainable energy, particularly benefiting rural and peri-urban areas. He underscored Akwa Ibom’s steps to enact the Electricity Act 2023 through its own Electricity Policy (2024) and Electricity Law (2024), aiming to foster a state-led, private-sector-driven electricity market.
Gov. Eno noted that the project is designed to offer clean, dependable solar energy to healthcare facilities statewide, thus enhancing healthcare delivery in rural and underserved areas. It is also intended to decrease reliance on diesel, improve environmental sustainability, and generate local employment while building technical expertise in solar maintenance and energy services.
He commended the state steering committee, composed of members from the Ministries of Power and Health, for its pivotal role in linking policy and implementation to achieve progressive community outcomes. He reassured development partners, including the EU, NTU International, and the REA, of the state government’s full support to make the project a benchmark for sustainable energy access in healthcare across Nigeria.
Commissioner for Power Mr. Robson Iniobong also remarked on the significance of electricity in ensuring the functionality of various sectors. He noted the governor’s commitment to prioritizing improvements in power and health sectors to deliver quality services.
Mr. Tinyan Ogiehor, Senior Stakeholders Engagement Manager of NISHP, stated that the project will establish solar mini-grids at approximately 19 Public Health Centres across the state. He added that the initiative will extend to the state central cold store, aiming to enhance healthcare services and stimulate economic activities. Additionally, this project is expected to support the operations of about 75 small businesses located within these health facilities.