By Rasheeda Hamidu
The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has approved a N100 billion investment in a 50-megawatt modular solar power project to improve electricity access and drive economic recovery across the North-East.
The NEDC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mohammed Alkali, announced the approval on Thursday during a press briefing in Abuja while outlining the commission’s transition from recovery to expansion under its regional master plan.
Alkali said the commission’s board approved the immediate commencement of the project to deploy modular solar-powered electricity systems to schools, hospitals, markets and other critical public infrastructure across the six North-East states.
He explained that the initiative forms part of the commission’s third phase of development, which focuses on expanding economic opportunities after years of stabilisation and reconstruction.
According to Alkali, about 61 per cent of residents in the region lack access to electricity, making reliable power the commission’s highest development priority.
“The board thought and came up with the resolution that we must do something as quickly as possible because without power, we cannot do anything. Power is number one. Power is number two. Power is number three,” Alkali said.
He added that the commission chose modular solar systems over conventional electricity infrastructure to provide reliable power directly to public institutions and surrounding communities.
The NEDC boss also disclosed that the commission plans to deploy 10,000 solar-powered electric tricycles and buses, approved by President Bola Tinubu, to promote clean transportation, create jobs and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
NatureNews notes that expanding access to renewable energy can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy security and strengthen climate resilience while supporting healthcare, education and local economic development.
NatureNews reports that sustained investment in renewable energy infrastructure remains critical to achieving Nigeria’s clean energy transition and improving electricity access in underserved communities.
