The Gombe State Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China18th Engineering, a global engineering firm known for major infrastructure and energy projects, to establish a 100-megawatt solar energy plant aimed at boosting the state’s energy self-sufficiency.
In a statement, Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General of Press Affairs said the agreement followed recent discussions between Governor Muhammadu Yahaya and senior executives of China Railway 18th Bureau Group in China.
The Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Sanusi Pindiga, represented the state government, while Group Managing Director Wan Lian Yu signed on behalf of China18th Engineering.
At the Government House where the MoU was signed, Governor Yahaya emphasised the importance of local power generation to stimulate economic growth and reduce frequent power outages.
“I am happy that today, we are hosting the management of the China 18th Bureau here in Gombe as a direct follow-up to our initial discussions in China. The MoU signifies the beginning of a transformative project that will boost electricity supply and bring prosperity to our people,” said Yahaya.
He noted that the agreement will soon progress to a formal contract phase, laying the foundation for the project’s implementation.
“With this project, we foresee job creation, increased investments, and a stable energy supply that will boost prosperity in Gombe and across the northeast,” he stated.
The governor also mentioned the recent nationwide blackout affecting Gombe and northern Nigeria, underscoring the potential of local power stations and alternative energy sources to prevent such outages.
He emphasised that his administration is leveraging the newly enacted Electricity Act, which empowers states to generate, distribute, and sell their electricity, thereby reducing reliance on the national grid.
“This partnership with China Railway 18th Bureau is a testament to our commitment to sustainable energy solutions and economic resilience, positioning solar energy as a dependable, eco-friendly option for our growing energy needs.”
The General Manager of International Engineering Company China Railway 18th Bureau Group, Xue Dewen, expressed confidence in his company’s capacity to deliver a top-tier solar energy system, commending Governor Inuwa’s vision for energy independence and economic advancement in the state.
“Our company is fully prepared to carry out this project to the highest standards,” he assured.
