The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has approved funding for a $163 million solar electrification project in Niger State to provide an alternative and reliable power source for communities across the state.
The development was disclosed in a statement by Bologi Ibrahim, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Niger State.
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Tagged the Niger State Solar Electrification Project, the initiative will span 200 hectares and is designed to support industrialisation, boost agricultural productivity, and stimulate overall economic growth.
The project is expected to generate 100 megawatts of solar power, supplying electricity to communities while strengthening both industrial and agricultural activities.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, while receiving the IsDB preparation team, said the solar project would complement the state’s significant investments in agriculture by enhancing food production and industrial development.
He also described the IsDB as a critical partner in the state’s development journey, noting that the investment would improve productivity, increase revenue generation, and address challenges across multiple sectors.
“The project, which is the first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa, is to cover 200 hectares of land with a cost of $163m to provide an alternative source of power to many communities,” the statement read in part.
It further stated, “Farmer Governor Umaru Bago acknowledged the vital roles the Islamic Development Bank has played in the State through various intervention projects.
The Bank’s decision to build 100megawatts of solar power in the State is a huge investment that will help increase productivity and revenue generation as well as pay for itself,” the statement read in part.