NEDC Begins Solar Power Installation Across Adamawa’s 21 LGAs

The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has commenced the installation of solar power systems across the 21 local government areas of Adamawa State as part of efforts to address persistent electricity shortages and stimulate economic activities in communities.

The NEDC Adamawa State Coordinator, Alhaji Khalifa Lawan, said the initiative was being implemented under Pillar Seven of the commission’s master plan and was primarily aimed at supporting small-scale businesses while improving security through increased lighting in communities.

According to Lawan, access to electricity would help extend business activities beyond daylight hours and discourage criminal activities by reducing areas where criminals could operate under the cover of darkness.

He disclosed that more than 2,000 solar power systems would be deployed in Yola, the state capital, while each of the 21 local government areas would receive 350 systems at selected locations.

Lawan further revealed that 1,000 locations had been identified across the local government areas for the first phase of the project. He clarified that the solar installations were separate from the solar-powered boreholes being provided by the commission across the state.

The coordinator also explained that NEDC projects were based on the identified needs of beneficiary communities, noting that communities are consulted before projects are selected and implemented.

He urged residents to take ownership of the projects and protect them from vandalism to ensure they continue to provide benefits to the people.

Meanwhile, NEDC Managing Director, Alhaji Mohammed Alkali, recently disclosed that the commission had approved about N100 billion for the construction of a 50-megawatt power grid designed to improve electricity supply across parts of the North-East.

Alkali said the commission was determined to help restore normalcy and improve living conditions in the region, with particular focus on commerce, agriculture, industry and education.

He added that the commission’s interventions since its establishment had been guided by its master plan, which focuses on stabilisation and recovery, renewal, expansion, and sustainable growth across the North-East.