The Gombe State government and the European Union have launched the Nigeria Solar for Health Project to boost renewable energy for healthcare delivery.

Officials said the initiative would supply reliable solar power to selected health facilities and extend clean energy to nearby productive users.

Speaking at the launch on Monday in Gombe, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, represented by deputy governor, Manassah Jatau, said the move would strengthen healthcare services.

Mr Yahaya said his administration was committed to people’s welfare, noting, “We increased funding for healthcare in our state budget from 3.5 per cent in 2019 to 15 per cent today.”

He said reforms had improved the sector and supported the revitalisation of health facilities across the state.

He added: “The arrival of the European Union-funded project is apt and necessary if we must improve healthcare for rural and underserved communities.”

He said available data showed that many citizens could hardly afford essential services because of cost barriers.

Mr Yahaya confirmed the state had paid its 30 per cent counterpart obligation amounting to N1 billion for the project.

He commended the European Union and pledged continued partnership to improve citizens’ living standards.

Inga Stephanowicz, head of section, Green and Digital Economy, said the project formed part of the European Union’s global gateway initiative.

She said the project would support quality healthcare service delivery across the state.

According to her, it would save lives, cut operational costs, and stimulate local economic activity.

She said over 20 small and medium enterprises would benefit from the 300 kilowatts of electricity to be installed.

Energy commissioner, Sanusi Pindiga, and health commissioner, Habu Dahiru, pledged commitment to the project’s success while praising the European Union and NTU International.

They stressed the need for round-the-clock clean and reliable energy for essential operations, including surgery, vaccine storage and childbirth.

NTU International’s stakeholder engagement manager, Tinyan Ogiehor, stressed the need for a sustainability mindset in operating and maintaining the systems.

He said long-term success depended on ensuring the solutions remained durable and effective.

The project will install solar microgrids in at least 10 rural secondary health centres across the state.

It will also support surrounding small enterprises with sustainable energy, boosting healthcare services and local economic growth.

(NAN)