Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has officially launched a 620KW small hydropower-solar PV hybrid system for communities around Balanga Dam in Balanga Local Government Area.
The hybrid system combines small hydropower and solar photovoltaic technologies to deliver clean and reliable electricity to deliver clean and renewable energy aimed at stimulating local enterprise, raising living standards and contributing to national goals for green industrialisation.
It is funded by the European Union, EU, the Global Environment Facility, GEF and the Federal Government, through the Rural Electrification Agency, REA and being implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, UNIDO.
According to project officials, REA is scheduled to commence the solar PV component within two weeks, while UNIDO will complete the small hydropower component by January 2026.
Governor Yahaya, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau, described the project as a major milestone in the journey toward energy security, rural electrification and industrial development in the state.
He emphasised that the launch was in line with his administration’s broader agenda of infrastructural development, economic empowerment and environmental sustainability.
“This project is timely and strategic. It speaks directly to our vision of self-reliance, sustainability and inclusive growth. Power is the backbone of modern development, and this system will transform lives, stimulate agriculture, create jobs and enhance the standard of living in Balanga and beyond,” the governor noted.
Various speakers at the launch describe the move as the first of its kind in Nigeria.
Ensure sustainability
The governor expressed deep appreciation to all partners for their commitment and praised the people of Balanga for their support, but urged the host community to take full ownership to ensure sustainability.
“You are the direct and immediate beneficiaries of this project. Protect it, use it wisely, and let it improve your lives economically, educationally and environmentally,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Managing Director of the REA, Mr. Abba Aliyu, described the initiative as a model for clean energy deployment in rural Nigeria, adding that his agency will complete its component within one month.
He commended Governor Yahaya for positioning Gombe to benefit from the Federal Government’s $750 million rural electrification package.
Also speaking, the UNIDO Regional Director, Ambassador Philbert Johnson, highlighted the project’s potential to boost agricultural productivity and drive economic development, while noting that Gombe State is the first state in the country to benefit from this landmark initiative.
He also praised Governor Yahaya’s commitment and timely counterpart funding.
The Operational Focal Point of GEF, Nkechi Aneke-Agnes, who was represented by Mr. Kabiru Jidda, from the Federal Ministry of Environment, commended Gombe State for aligning with national renewable energy priorities and lauded the governor for consistently honouring counterpart funding obligations, a commitment he described as exceptional in today’s governance landscape.
Drive sustainable development
The Commissioner for Water, Environment and Forest Resources, Mr. Saidu Muhammed Fawu, called the project a shining example of what strategic partnerships can achieve, saying the project is expected to drive sustainable development, boost local economies and solidify the standing of Gombe State as a model of innovation and resilience in Nigeria’s energy transition.
Also speaking, Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Mr. Sanusi Ahmed Pindiga, thanked the governor for his steadfast commitment and political will to see the project through.
Chairman of Balanga LGA, Hon. Ibrahim Salisu and Member of the Gombe State House of Assembly representing Balanga North, Hon. Musa Buba in their separate remarks credited the project’s realisation to the governor’s strategic engagement with development partners.
The Royal Father Waja Chiefdom, the Bala Waja, His Royal Highness, Mohammed Danjuma Mohammed, hailed the launch as historic for a community long deprived of power.
He also pledged that the chiefdom would fully support the project in safeguarding it.
Lateefah Ibrahim