The European Union has committed €10.4 million to the Nigeria Solar for Health Project, aiming to equip 100 primary healthcare centres across the country with dependable and sustainable solar power.
During a project developers’ workshop, Inga Stephanowicz, Head of Section for Green & Digital Economy at the EU, emphasized that this effort reflects the EU’s dedication to strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system through clean energy.
She described the €10.4 million funding as a major step forward in rolling out the initiative nationwide.
The Nigeria Solar for Health Project (NISHP) plans to deliver around-the-clock clean and efficient energy to selected public healthcare facilities.
Stephanowicz pointed out that the project’s impact will extend beyond just electrifying hospitals.
She said the EU will partner with state governments, the private sector, and local communities to advance Nigeria’s development and sustainability targets.
In the first phase, the project will install solar energy systems at 45 healthcare centres in various states.
By 2027, the project aims to scale up to 100 facilities, with current implementation underway in Abia, Akwa Ibom, Ogun, Plateau, and Enugu, and more states set to join.
NISHP Team Lead, Nasiru Bello, stressed that the initiative could transform healthcare delivery, expand energy access, and drive economic development.
He noted that solar power will not only support medical facilities but also benefit nearby businesses and telecom services.
Tinyan Ogiehor, Stakeholder Engagement Expert for the project, highlighted its critical role in rural areas with limited or no electricity.
He explained that reliable solar energy would boost medical services, improve vaccine storage, and support emergency response.
He added that reducing fossil fuel dependence will cut emissions and promote clean energy use.
The roundtable workshop gathered state officials, private companies, and tech providers to align plans and ensure the project’s successful delivery by 2027.
source:punchng.com
African Energy Council