NEDC okays N100bn solar power project for North-East

The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has approved a significant investment of approximately N100 billion for a 50-megawatt solar power project. This initiative is designed to enhance electricity supply across the North-East region, which the commission identifies as crucial for economic recovery and development. Mohammed Alkali, the Managing Director and CEO of NEDC, announced the approval during a press briefing in Abuja. He outlined the commission's transition from recovery to expansion under its regional master plan. The NEDC board has sanctioned the immediate commencement of the project, which will involve deploying modular solar-powered electricity systems to essential public infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, and markets, across the six states of the North-East. Alkali emphasized that inadequate electricity is a major impediment to development in the region, where an estimated 61 percent of residents lack access to power. "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," he stated. The commission opted for modular solar systems to ensure direct benefits to communities and to support existing investments in education, healthcare, and commerce. In addition to the solar power project, the NEDC also announced plans to promote electric mobility. This includes deploying 10,000 solar-powered electric tricycles and buses assembled in Nigeria. This initiative, approved by President Bola Tinubu, aims to create jobs for young people, support clean transportation, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

“

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.