KEY POINTS

• The feat marks a major milestone in Plateau’s rural electrification.

• Governor Mutfwang says the solar grid ends Namu’s 20-year darkness.

• The project will boost local businesses and renewable energy adoption.

Following nearly 20 years without electricity, residents of Namu Community in the Quan’Pan Local Government Area of Plateau State may now energize their homes and businesses due to the inauguration of a 50-kilowatt solar mini-grid on Thursday.

Governor celebrates Namu solar project success

The initiative, supported by a consortium comprising the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the Plateau State Energy Corporation, and Cloud Energy, seeks to provide dependable electricity to rural communities throughout Plateau State.

During the commissioning ceremony, Governor Caleb Mutfwang characterized the occasion as a pivotal moment for Namu and other off-grid settlements. He stated that the initiative signifies a “new chapter” for rural development in the state and emphasizes his administration’s concentration on three important sectors — energy, roads, and water supplies.

“Today, Quan’Pan, which once existed in obscurity, has emerged into the light,” Mutfwang stated. I remember visiting this location during the campaign when darkness descended upon us without electricity. It was distressing to witness a once-vibrant community remain uninformed. Since taking office, we have endeavored to terminate that cycle of neglect.

He declared that approximately six kilometers of Jibam Road are approaching completion, with intentions to extend the project prior to the forthcoming rainy season. He committed to addressing the community’s water issues promptly, asserting that every person is entitled to access clean water. “This solar initiative marks the commencement of a transformative journey for Quan’Pan and Plateau State,” he stated.

Christopher Audu Manchip, Chairman of Quan’Pan Local Government, described the project as the “first of its kind” in the region and commended the governor for restoring “development to the grassroots.” He stated that the effort has “elevated the populace from poverty to advancement.”

Economic boost from Namu solar project

According to Punch, Director-General of the Plateau State ICT Development Agency and a native of Namu, emphasized the project’s extensive economic significance. The 10,000-member village, which features a rice mill and a vibrant local market, will now gain from a reliable power supply that may facilitate new economic prospects. He stated that the solar grid facilitates Nigeria’s advancing shift to renewable energy and bolsters the local economy.

Community elders, including Ambassador Yahaya Kwande, praised the project, characterizing it as a long-anticipated advancement in sustainable rural development.

The Namu solar project is integral to Nigeria’s comprehensive renewable energy strategy aimed at enhancing rural electrification and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Authorities assert that off-grid options are essential for addressing energy deficiencies in neglected regions while fostering inclusive development.