Gombe State has signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) with China’s 18th Engineering Bureau Group to
launch a 100-megawatt solar
energy project aimed at increasing
energy self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on the national grid.
The agreement, part of ongoing efforts to expand local power generation, was formalised after a series of meetings between Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and senior executives from China Railway 18th Bureau Group in China.
The Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Sanusi Ahmad Pindiga, represented Gombe State at the MoU signing event, while Group Managing Director, Wan Lian Yu signed on behalf of the engineering firm.
While speaking during the signing ceremony in Gombe, Governor Yahaya emphasised the critical role of local energy generation in fostering economic growth and reducing the impact of nationwide blackouts.
“This MoU is a major step towards reliable electricity for Gombe residents.
“We are building the foundation for sustainable energy that will drive investments, create jobs, and bring prosperity,” Yahaya stated.
He noted that the project would soon progress to a full contract and implementation phase, underscoring the importance of the newly enacted Electricity Act.
Governor Yahaya also said the act grants states the right to generate, distribute, and sell power independently.
According to him, this act opens doors for Gombe to diversify its energy sources and minimize disruptions caused by grid dependency.
He also highlighted the significance of the partnership.
“This collaboration with China Railway 18th Bureau underscores our commitment to eco-friendly energy and economic resilience.
“Solar power will soon provide Gombe with a stable and sustainable energy source to meet our growing demands,” said Governor Yahaya.
Mr. Xue Dewen, General Manager of China Railway 18th Bureau Group, expressed his confidence in the project, praising Governor Yahaya’s forward-looking energy initiatives.
“Our team is fully prepared to deliver a high-quality solar solution that aligns with Gombe’s vision for energy autonomy and economic growth,” he assured.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
