The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding electricity access across the country as the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, launched the Zamfara State Electricity Policy, commissioned two solar power plants and flagged off the development of 36 solar mini grids across nine local government areas of the state.
The projects, when completed, are expected to connect nearly 147,000 homes and businesses, while improving electricity supply to underserved communities.
Tegbe, who performed the ceremonies in Gusau alongside Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu, development partners, traditional rulers and community leaders, said the initiatives demonstrate the Federal Government’s commitment to translating policy reforms and investments into improved public services.
He noted that the projects align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in expanding access to reliable electricity and promoting cleaner energy alternatives.
The two commissioned solar projects comprise a one-megawatt mini grid with a 2.4-megawatt-hour Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at the Ahmed Sani Yariman Bakura Specialist Hospital and a 1.5-megawatt solar plant with a 3.6-megawatt-hour battery storage system at the Government House and its auxiliary facilities.
The hospital project is expected to provide more reliable electricity for medical operations and the preservation of essential medicines, while the Government House installation will eliminate dependence on diesel-powered electricity generation.
Of the 36 mini grids planned for the state, two interconnected projects in Gusau and Kaura Namoda will strengthen electricity supply through existing distribution networks, while the remaining 34 will provide power to communities beyond the reach of the national grid.
The Minister also highlighted the unveiling of Zamtaxi, a clean transportation initiative expected to create economic opportunities for drivers, technicians and young entrepreneurs.
Tegbe attributed the growing participation of states and private investors in the electricity sector to President Tinubu’s assent to the Electricity Act 2023, which provides a framework for states to develop and regulate their electricity markets.
He pledged the Ministry of Power’s support to Zamfara State in translating its electricity policy into effective institutions and improved service delivery.
The Minister also urged host communities to take ownership of the electricity infrastructure, protect the facilities and promptly report cases of vandalism and theft.
He commended Governor Lawal for sponsoring the two commissioned mini-grid projects and other solar-powered initiatives across the state, including electricity projects covering 15 general hospitals, 800 schools and 70 primary healthcare facilities.
Tegbe also congratulated Zamfara State on its 30th anniversary, describing the electricity investments as important steps towards strengthening the state’s development.
The 36 mini-grid projects form part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to complement the national grid with renewable energy solutions, particularly in communities with limited or no access to electricity.
The initiative is expected to support households, hospitals, schools, businesses, farms and markets through a more diversified and reliable electricity supply system.
