The European Union (EU) has revealed plans to invest €37 million into solar and hydropower initiatives, targeting healthcare centres and rural areas across Nigeria.
During her recent visit to the Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, in Abuja, Ambassador Samuela Isopi, the EU Head of Mission to Nigeria, disclosed this significant investment. She, Mr. Luca Massimo, the new Head of Cooperation of the EU, and Mr. Godfrey Ogbemudia, Programme Manager on Energy, made the announcement.
Isopi clarified that this funding is separate from the roughly €200 million in grants allocated to the sector since 2008. She outlined the EU’s focus on small hydro-power and solar energy for healthcare facilities as part of their intervention programs in the power sector.
The initiative aims to kickstart rural electrification through isolated and interconnected mini-grid projects alongside endeavours promoting circular economy principles. Isopi stressed the immediacy of these projects, indicating they will commence soon.
Moreover, she invited the minister for the forthcoming inauguration of two EU-financed projects executed by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
Addressing Sector Challenges
Responding to the EU’s commitment, Minister Adelabu and his Chief Technical Advisor, Mr. Adedayo Olowoniyi, expressed appreciation for the ongoing support.
Adelabu underscored the need for additional assistance to tackle significant sectoral challenges. He highlighted liquidity issues as a top concern, noting ongoing efforts to address them. The minister emphasized the importance of implementing a tariff structure that accurately reflects service costs for achieving a sustainable and efficiently operated market.
