News
EU, Abia Govt Launch N4.8bn Solar Lifeline for Primary Healthcare
Tricia Michaels
The European Union (EU), in partnership with the Abia State Government, has launched the Nigeria Solar for Health Project (NISHP)—a N4.84 billion initiative designed to provide 24/7 solar power to over 25 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across 17 local government areas of the state.
The project, officially launched on Tuesday at the Deputy Governor’s Office, Government House, Umuahia, is aimed at transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas, by ensuring a stable electricity supply for essential services such as diagnostic equipment, vaccine storage, and medication preservation.
Speaking at the event, Governor Alex C. Otti, represented by Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and boosting economic activities across the state.
“This initiative will not only transform the healthcare system in the state but also bring life and hope to our communities,” Emetu said.
“It is also expected to support economic growth in surrounding areas and improve the overall living conditions of our people.”
He extended appreciation to the EU for selecting Abia as one of the few states to benefit from this phase of the project.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Abia State, I express our gratitude to the EU leadership in Brussels for bringing this excellent initiative to our state. We also thank NTU International, the implementing partner, for their commitment to the project’s long-term success.”
Senior Stakeholder Engagement Manager of NISHP, Mr. Tinyan Ogiehor, explained that the project is designed to enhance healthcare outcomes by leveraging solar energy to power PHCs.
“This EU-supported project is specifically targeted at improving healthcare service delivery in rural areas by providing reliable electricity to power diagnostic tools, preserve vaccines, and store essential medicines,” Ogiehor said.
He revealed that Abia State is contributing 30% counterpart funding to the project, showing strong local commitment.
Beyond healthcare, the project is also expected to benefit more than 50 small businesses operating in or around the health centres, helping to stimulate local economic development.
A 10-member Steering Committee, chaired by the Abia State Commissioner for Power, has been inaugurated to oversee the project’s implementation and ensure its timely delivery.
The NISHP is part of the broader EU commitment to renewable energy, health sector revitalization, and economic development in Nigeria.
Business
Bilateral Boost: Nigeria, Italy Forge Path to Shared Prosperity
Maryam Aminu
Nigeria’s Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has described the country as one of Africa’s most attractive investment destinations, as Nigeria and Italy take bold steps toward deepening economic and trade relations.
Speaking at the first Nigeria-Italy Investment Summit 2025 (NIIS 2025), themed “Building Bridges: Unlocking Opportunities,” Abbas, represented by Hon. Afuope Afolabi, emphasized Nigeria’s large population, dynamic market, and resource-rich economy as key assets for global investors.
“Italian enterprises have found fertile ground in Nigeria, and we in turn have benefited from these investments,” Abbas said, calling for a reimagined approach to bilateral cooperation through targeted investments in agriculture, energy, oil and gas, agro-processing, and solid minerals.
The summit organized by Giant Gee Nigeria Limited in partnership with the Italian Embassy served as a high-level platform for fostering investment-driven dialogue and strategic partnerships.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, represented by Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo, echoed the sentiment, stating, “These are two nations with immense potential. This summit is not just about investment; it’s about aligning values and mutual economic ambition.”
Italian Deputy Ambassador Mr. Lacopo Foti described the gathering as a celebration of shared values, trust, and commitment to sustainable development. “Italy’s cultural heritage and technological expertise make it a natural partner for Nigeria,” he noted.
With 2024 trade volumes between the two countries reaching approximately €2.5 billion, stakeholders expressed optimism that NIIS 2025 would spark greater collaboration and unlock long-term opportunities to transform both economies and improve livelihoods.
Earlier, the Managing Director of Giant Gee Nigeria Ltd, Amb. Engr. Augustine Chigbolu, said the summit aims to revitalize the bilateral business relationship between Nigeria and Italy.
“By fostering these strategic partnerships, the summit aims to not only solidify existing trade relations but also to discover new avenues for joint innovation and development.” He added
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