January 29, 2025

Transforming Healthcare Services: 25 PHCs in Plateau Go Solar Across 17 LGAs

The Plateau State Government has launched the Nigeria Solar for Health Project (NISHP) to enhance healthcare services by providing solar power to 25 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across 17 Local Government Areas. Governor Caleb Mutfwang reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and emphasised the ongoing renovations of 82 PHCs to improve service delivery.

Commitment to Functional Healthcare Facilities


The Plateau State Government has launched the Nigeria Solar for Health Project (NISHP) to improve healthcare delivery across 25 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs). The initiative aims to provide solar power to facilities across the state’s 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs).

Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang inaugurated the project’s Steering Committee in Jos, stressing its role in ensuring uninterrupted power supply to PHCs. The European Union (EU) is supporting the initiative, which is expected to enhance healthcare services — especially in rural areas.

Governor Mutfwang reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure. He revealed that when he assumed office, less than 5% of the state’s over 1,000 PHCs were functional. In response, contracts were awarded to renovate 82 health facilities. He explained that the new solar project will ensure a reliable power supply, which allows PHCs to operate diagnostic equipment, store vaccines, and preserve medicines 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 appreciation to the EU and NISHP for selecting Plateau State as a beneficiary. He pledged full support for the successful implementation of the project.

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 fulfilling its commitment by providing 30% of the counterpart funding for the initiative.

She pointed out that only 40% of functional PHCs in Nigeria have regular power supply, which affects their efficiency. The NISHP project seeks to change this by ensuring reliable energy for healthcare facilities.

“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 Services and Economic Activities


Mr. Tinyan Ogiehor, Senior Stakeholders Engagement Manager at NISHP, explained that the project will install solar mini-grids at 25 PHCs. These installations will improve healthcare services and support economic activities within the facilities. “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 set up, with Mr. Ponzing Gamde, Executive Director of the Plateau Energy Corporation, serving as the chairman. Commissioner for Health Cletus Shrunk is the co-chair, while Secretary to the State Government Samuel Jatau is also a member.

Governor Mutfwang assured stakeholders that his administration will monitor the project’s progress to guarantee 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 enhance healthcare services. By providing reliable electricity to PHCs, the initiative will improve service delivery and patient care. With EU support and government investment, the project is expected to transform healthcare infrastructure. Residents — particularly in rural areas — will benefit from improved medical services and access to essential treatments.


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