By Victor Essang
UYO
The Akwa Ibom Government has launched the Nigeria Solar for Health Project (NISHP) to strengthen healthcare delivery through sustainable energy solutions.
Unveiled at the Ibom-LED Training Hall in Uyo, Friday, the project, which is in partnership between Akwa Ibom government, the European Union (EU), the Federal Ministries of Power and Health, and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), is being implemented by NTU International and aims to provide reliable solar power to health centres across the state.
Speaking during the launch, Governor Umo Eno, represented by his deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, said the initiative aligns with his administration’s commitment to achieving universal and sustainable energy access, particularly in rural communities.
He highlighted that Akwa Ibom has domesticated the Electricity Act 2023 through the enactment of the Electricity Policy 2024 and Electricity Law 2024, paving the way for the creation of the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Market (AKSEM).
“Electricity is not just a commodity; it is the foundation of healthcare, education, security, and prosperity,” the governor said, adding, “We are creating a platform where on-grid and off-grid solutions can coexist to deliver reliable power to all sectors, including our hospitals and health centres.”
Eno expressed optimism that the solar project would generate local jobs and build technical capacity in renewable energy services, and assured the EU, NTU International, and REA of the State government’s full support to make the initiative a model for sustainable energy access in healthcare across Nigeria.
While lauding the state steering committee for accepting the responsibility to serve, Eno affirmed that the committee would serve as the vital bridge between policy implementation and progressive community outcomes.
Commissioner for power, Mr Robson Iniobong, Engineer, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to effective implementation of the project, noting that Governor Eno’s interest in both the power and health sectors underscores his focus on people-centred governance.
Also speaking, the Senior Stakeholder Engagement Manager of NISHP, Mr Tinyan Ogiehor, disclosed that the project would install solar mini-grids in about 19 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) across Akwa Ibom, while also powering around 75 small businesses located within those communities.
The event also featured the inauguration of the NISHP State Steering Committee, with the Commissioner for Power, Robson, as chairman.
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