Written By: Ahmed Rufa’i in Dutse
The Green & Environment Project Initiative (GEPI) has commended Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, for what it described as a bold and strategic move to transform the state’s economy through the establishment of the Jigawa State Electricity Commission.
This was contained in a press statement issued in Dutse, the state capital, and made available to TRUTHS FINDER by the group’s state coordinator, Comrade Ahmed Illah.
Illah described the signing of the Jigawa State Electricity Commission Bill into law as a major milestone in the state’s development drive, saying it has the potential to reshape Jigawa’s socio-economic landscape and place it on the path of modern, sustainable growth.
GEPI, a coalition of civil society organisations working on environmental sustainability and climate change advocacy, said the development marks a landmark achievement by the Namadi administration in tackling long-standing electricity generation, distribution and access challenges in the state.
According to the group, the establishment of the Commission places Jigawa among the leading states taking advantage of the decentralisation of Nigeria’s electricity sector, opening new opportunities for energy security, industrial expansion, economic growth and sustainable development.
The organisation noted that the Commission is expected to play a key role in attracting private sector participation and investment in the energy sector, while also promoting public-private partnerships in electricity infrastructure and supporting grid, mini-grid and off-grid power solutions across the state.
GEPI further stated that the initiative aligns with global efforts to address climate change through the promotion of renewable energy development, clean energy technologies and innovation in the power sector.
The group recalled that the Jigawa State Government had recently demonstrated its commitment to energy sector reforms with a ₦4 billion investment to acquire a 10 per cent equity stake in the Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO), a move expected to improve electricity distribution and expand access to power for residents and businesses.
It also highlighted the state’s landmark $5 million joint venture agreement with international partners for the establishment of a 100-megawatt-per-annum solar panel assembly plant.
According to GEPI, the solar project will not only improve access to clean and affordable energy, but also create jobs, stimulate industrial growth and strengthen environmental sustainability in the state.
The organisation maintained that Governor Umar Namadi’s administration is setting a strong example in energy reform and environmental stewardship, describing the Electricity Commission Law as another decisive step towards building a greener, more prosperous and economically vibrant Jigawa State.
