Abuja: The European Union (EU) has announced a £10.4 million investment in the Nigeria Solar for Health Project (NISHP), which aims to provide primary healthcare centers in Nigeria with reliable and sustainable solar energy solutions. Inga Stephanowicz, Head of Section, Green and Digital Economy, EU, made this announcement at the Project Developers Roundtable Workshop for NISHP held in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the initiative is part of the EU’s ongoing efforts to enhance Nigeria’s healthcare sector by ensuring consistent energy supply, thereby improving healthcare services and outcomes. The NISHP, funded by the EU, is set to provide 24-hour access to clean, efficient, and reliable energy to public healthcare facilities across Nigeria, aiming to improve the healthcare system through the provision of solar power.
Stephanowicz emphasized that the project is a collaborative effort with the Nigerian government, private sector entities, and local communities. This collaboration aims to support
Nigeria’s development goals and promote a brighter future for its citizens. The project will focus on sustainability by providing adequate solar power supply to 45 healthcare facilities in selected states.
By working with state government actors and leveraging available counterpart funds, the project aims not only to electrify health centers but also small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and telecom towers. Nasiru Bello, Team Lead for NISHP, highlighted the potential of solar power to improve healthcare outcomes, increase electricity access, and facilitate economic growth. He stressed the importance of monitoring the project’s impact and making necessary adjustments as it progresses.
Bello also noted that the NISHP underscores the EU’s commitment to sustainable development and partnership with Nigeria. He mentioned that the project could serve as a model for other renewable energy initiatives across Africa, with a broader impact on economic growth and community development by electrifying SMEs and telec
om towers near healthcare facilities.
Tinyan Ogiehor, Stakeholders Engagement Expert for NISHP, pointed out the project’s potential benefits in rural areas where electricity access is limited. By leveraging solar power, Nigeria could reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, mitigate climate change, and promote sustainable energy solutions. The project’s solar energy solutions are expected to enhance medical care, vaccine storage, and emergency services.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the workshop gathered key stakeholders, including state government officials, private sector entities, and technology service providers. The project has been inaugurated in Abia, Akwa-Ibom, Ogun, Plateau, and Enugu, with plans for other states to participate. The NISHP is scheduled to run from 2024 to 2027.