On Thursday, the European Union (EU), announced the launch of solar energy projects aimed at providing uninterrupted electricity to healthcare facilities in Plateau State. The initiative seeks to ensure reliable power for medical equipment, thereby enhancing healthcare services for local communities.
Funded by the EU in collaboration with the Plateau State Government, the project underscores the vital role of clean energy in improving quality of life, particularly in rural healthcare settings, according to a statement from the EU Commission in Abuja.
“The EU has allocated €1.7 million for project implementation through NTU International and €8.7 million for infrastructure development, managed by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit,” the statement added.
At the launch of the Solar for Health project, Inga Stefanowicz, Head of Green and Digital Economy at the EU Delegation in Nigeria and ECOWAS, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s energy sector through initiatives like Solar for Health. She emphasized that the project represents a major milestone in the partnership between the EU and Plateau State, with the goal of providing reliable and clean energy to healthcare facilities.
“The project will support at least 25 healthcare facilities across the state, improving energy access and enhancing overall healthcare services,” she stated.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State welcomed the Solar for Health initiative, highlighting the vital role of energy in delivering quality healthcare. He stressed that reliable electricity is crucial for powering life-saving medical equipment and ensuring effective healthcare services.
“Without energy, our healthcare services are limited,” he stated. “This project is a game-changer for Plateau State, and we are committed to its success.”
As part of the launch, Governor Mutfwang inaugurated the Plateau State Solar for Health Project Steering Committee. Tasked with overseeing the project’s implementation, the committee includes representatives from the EU, GIZ, NTU International, and the Plateau State Government. It will be led by Pongzing Gambe, Managing Director of the Plateau State Energy Corporation, with Commissioner for Health Cletus Shurkuk serving as co-chair.
Samuel Jatau, Secretary to the Plateau State Government and newly appointed chairman of the state steering committee, expressed gratitude to the governor for the opportunity to serve. He assured that he and the committee members would work diligently to ensure the project’s successful implementation.
The Solar for Health project is part of the broader EU Global Gateway initiative, which aims to drive investment in smart, sustainable infrastructure worldwide, with a focus on energy, health, and education.
