FG inaugurates 400kW solar power plant in Yobe
The Federal Government has officially launched the first phase of the 400kW Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Power Plant at the Yobe State University Teaching Hospital in Damaturu, marking a significant step towards enhancing healthcare services and promoting renewable energy in Nigeria.
Chief Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, said the initiative aims to boost healthcare delivery while advancing the country’s renewable energy agenda. He was represented at the event by Alhaji Mamuda Mamman, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Power.
Adelabu described the project as a milestone in the implementation of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for energy reform, underscoring the government’s commitment to making energy access a right, especially for underserved and remote areas.
“This solar power plant underlines our commitment to delivering sustainable and inclusive energy solutions that will support socioeconomic growth. It ensures the hospital operates with reliable and clean energy, which is crucial for critical operations such as surgeries, equipment usage, and vaccine refrigeration,” Adelabu stated.
He also pointed out that the project aligns with the Electricity Act 2023, which prioritises renewable energy adoption through decentralised systems and provides incentives for the private sector, including Feed-in Tariffs.
The Minister stressed the importance of energy security for national development and said that stable electricity in healthcare institutions is essential.
“This Damaturu installation is part of a larger federal strategy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, address climate change, and create jobs through green technology. Today, we are commissioning Phase I of this 400kW project, with plans to scale it to 1MW and replicate similar initiatives across the country. Our goal is to power hospitals, schools, and critical infrastructure with clean, reliable energy,” Adelabu added.
Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, represented by his deputy Alhaji Idi Gubana, commended the federal government for its intervention, highlighting that the solar plant would improve service delivery and reduce operational costs at the hospital.
“The Yobe State University Teaching Hospital has expanded from a 250-bed to a 750-bed facility, and this solar power plant will support our efforts to provide uninterrupted energy for modern medical equipment and services,” Buni said.
He also drew attention to other state government initiatives to enhance healthcare, including the establishment of the Yobe State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (YOCHMA) and the upgrading of nine health centres to general hospitals.
Dr Muhammad Lawan Gana, the Commissioner for Health, stated that the solar plant would support the Senator Mamman Ali Maternal and Child Health Complex, which houses advanced medical facilities such as MRI and 3D Ultrasound machines.
“This project is a testament to the strong collaboration between the state and federal governments in improving public health infrastructure,” Gana said.
