The Plateau State Government is enhancing healthcare delivery by launching the Nigeria Solar for Health Project (NISHP), an initiative set to equip 25 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across 17 Local Government Areas with reliable solar power. At the launch, Governor Caleb Mutfwang reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure, highlighting the project’s alignment with the ongoing renovation of 82 PHCs to improve service delivery statewide.
Commitment to Functional Healthcare Facilities
In its ongoing efforts to improve healthcare delivery, the Plateau State Government has launched the Nigeria Solar for Health Project (NISHP). This initiative will provide solar power to 25 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the state’s 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs).
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang inaugurated the project’s Steering Committee in Jos, stressing its vital role in ensuring an uninterrupted power supply for the PHCs. Supported by the European Union (EU), the initiative is expected to significantly enhance healthcare services, particularly in rural areas.
Governor Mutfwang reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure, noting that the new solar project will ensure a reliable power supply. This will allow PHCs to operate diagnostic equipment, store vaccines, and preserve medicines more effectively.
“This project is a testament to our administration’s commitment to functional PHCs and access to quality, affordable healthcare at the grassroots,” Mutfwang said. “When we assumed office, less than 5% of the over 1,000 PHCs in the state were operational. This prompted us to award contracts for the renovation of 82 PHCs.”
The governor expressed his appreciation to the EU and NISHP for selecting Plateau State as a beneficiary and pledged full support for the project’s successful implementation.
EU’s Support for Renewable Energy in Healthcare
Inga Stephanowicz, Head of Section for Green and Digital Economy at EU-Nigeria, highlighted the importance of clean and renewable energy in the healthcare sector. She commended the Plateau State Government for meeting its commitment to provide 30% of the counterpart funding for the initiative.
“Access to steady electricity is indispensable for effective healthcare delivery,” Stephanowicz stated. “Research indicates that only 40% of functional PHCs in Nigeria have regular power supply, which hinders their efficiency. The NISHP project aims to reverse this trend.”
She also revealed plans to construct a hydro-solar power plant at Assop Falls in Riyom LGA to further boost the state’s energy capacity.
Impact on Local Healthcare and Economic Activities
According to Tinyan Ogiehor, Senior Stakeholders Engagement Manager at NISHP, the project will install solar mini-grids at the 25 PHCs, which will not only improve healthcare services but also support local economic activities. “Beyond powering the PHCs, this project will enhance the operations of 75 small businesses located within these facilities. For this phase, at least one PHC per LGA will benefit,” Ogiehor said.
To ensure proper execution, a nine-member Steering Committee has been established, with Ponzing Gamde, Executive Director of the Plateau Energy Corporation, serving as chairman. Commissioner for Health Cletus Shurk is the co-chair, while Secretary to the State Government Samuel Jatau is also a member.
Governor Mutfwang assured stakeholders that his administration will closely monitor the project’s progress to ensure its success. “Considering the importance of this initiative, we invested in it, and we are committed to ensuring that our people reap the benefits it brings,” he said.
The NISHP project marks a significant milestone in Plateau State’s efforts to transform its healthcare infrastructure. By providing reliable electricity, the initiative is poised to improve service delivery and patient care, especially for rural residents who will gain better access to essential medical treatments.
