By Abbas Nazil
The Kano State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding renewable energy development through stronger collaboration with key stakeholders in the power sector.
This was emphasized by the State Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Dr. Gaddafi Sani Shehu, during a visit to the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) office in Abuja.
Leading a high-powered delegation, Dr. Gaddafi explained that the visit aimed to reinforce ongoing partnerships to accelerate the state’s renewable energy initiatives.
He described the engagement as a significant step forward in Kano’s drive to advance small hydro power projects, particularly the Ghari Dam Project in Ghari Local Government Area.
According to him, the collaboration between the Kano State Government and UNIDO reflects the administration’s firm dedication to sustainable development, environmental innovation, and inclusive growth in the energy sector.
Dr. Gaddafi noted that the small hydro power project at Ghari Dam is expected to increase the state’s electricity generation capacity and enhance the growth of agro-allied industries that rely heavily on energy.
He emphasized that the project would also promote economic development, improve energy security, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels while creating job opportunities to boost local economies.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Managing Director of Kano Hydro and Energy Development Company, Engr. Abduljabbar Muhd, led a team of UNIDO technical experts on an inspection tour of the Ghari Dam site.
He explained that the inspection visit was part of the state government’s strategy to leverage international expertise and attract global investment to deliver high-impact energy projects.
Engr. Abduljabbar highlighted that the collaboration with UNIDO aligns with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s vision of providing affordable and clean energy for residents and industries in Kano State.
During the site visit, Mr. Lin Chang Pang, a representative of UNIDO, said the purpose of the assessment was to evaluate the terrain and determine the technical feasibility of the proposed hydro power plant.
He stated that the outcome of the assessment would form part of a comprehensive feasibility study that would guide the implementation process and ensure the project’s sustainability.
Mr. Lin reaffirmed UNIDO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s energy transition through practical, scalable projects that strengthen local economies and reduce carbon emissions.
The partnership between Kano State and UNIDO is seen as a vital effort to harness renewable energy resources, drive economic resilience, and contribute to Nigeria’s broader agenda on climate action and sustainable industrial growth.