Governor Umaru Bago has reached an agreement to partner with the Islamic Development Bank to implement the Niger Solar Electrification Project.

The project, the first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa, will cover 200 hectares of land at a cost of $163 million to provide an alternative power source for many communities.

Mr Bago, who received the preparation Mission team for the Niger Solar Electrification Project, code-named ‘NGA1063’, said his government had invested heavily in the agricultural sector, pointing out that the solar electrification project would complement food production and Industrialisation.

Mr Bago acknowledged the vital role that the IsDB had played in Niger through various intervention projects.

He stated that the bank’s decision to build 100 megawatts of solar power in the state was a huge investment that will help increase productivity and revenue generation, as well as pay for itself.

He also admitted that the electrification project would address multi-sectoral issues.

The governor, while appreciating the bank for its sustained partnership, said Niger would ensure that all projects are maintained, as the state remains well-positioned to harness its renewable energy potential.

(NAN)