TheCable

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has installed solar power in a community in Abuja, after decades without electricity supply.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Ahmad Salihijo, managing director of REA, said the solar project was executed in partnership with the Rotary Club of Abuja, Maitama.

Salihijo said 30 homes including a health centre in Galuwyi 1 community, Bwari area council of the federal capital territory (FCT) benefitted from the power project.

He said the project is focused on poor communities and is part of the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPRGS) programme, currently being implemented by the office of the vice president, through the federal ministry of finance, budget and national planning.

“I am happy that the Rotary Club of Abuja, Maitama has brought the REA to its adopted village. We are happy that for the first time in 100 years, they have power supply. This solar power project has multiplier effects and it is cost-effective,” he said.

Salihijo with Rotary Club members and community leaders

“The 30 solar panels are capable of generating 40 watts of electricity for basic needs. The government will continue to provide access to reliable electric power supply for rural dwellers irrespective of where they live.

“We will ensure that the un-served and underserved communities across Nigeria continue to feel the impact of the federal government’s energy interventions.”

Also speaking at the inauguration, Goddy Nnadi, district governor 9125 of Rotary International, urged members of the Galuwyi community to ensure proper maintenance of the newly installed solar power.

“Upon findings that the community had been without light since its existence, Rotary Club of Abuja, Maitama, and REA stepped in by installing the solar power equipment,” Nnadi said.

“I plead with members of the community to ensure it is maintained and used judiciously. In this village, the Rotary Club of Abuja, Maitama has executed more than 13 projects.

“Our joy in Rotary is selfless service to humanity. We want to improve quality of life through our organization’s seven areas of focus. We will not relent in reaching the unreached to make life better globally.”