The Islamic Development Bank is to invest One Hundred and Sixty Three million dollars in the provision of solar-powered electricity in Niger State.
At a maiden meeting with representatives of the Bank in Minna, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago described energy as a catalyst for industrial growth.
The project is expected to produce One hundred megawatts of electricity.
To facilitate it’s realization, the State Government has set aside 500 hectares of land exceeding the 200 hectares initially requested by the Bank for the project.
Governor Bago observed that while the State is already home to four hydroelectric dams, the proposed solar initiative is crucial to filling the current energy supply gaps.
He explained that increased access to power supply would boost small businesses and strengthen the economy.
Governor Bago maintained that this is not the first collaboration between Niger State and the Islamic Development Bank with its presence already evident in the ongoing construction of the Minna-Bida dual carriageway.
The Team leader, Islamic Development Bank Mr Daniyar Abylkhan said the team would spend one week in Minna.
He emphasised that within the period, the team would conduct feasibility study of the site and analyzed other related matters.
One of the consultants to the project, Mr Umar Faruk Batagarawa expressed optimism that when completed, the solar powered electricity would complement the National grid which often collapse due to high energy demand.
