Insecurity: Commission to light up cities, towns with solar power in Northeast

The North East Development Commission (NEDC) plans to light up dozens of cities and towns with 12,000 solar-powered electric poles in the Northeast. The solar-powered cities and towns are in the region, which comprises Borno, Adamawa, Gombe, Bauchi, Taraba, and Yobe states.

According to the commission, installing solar-powered electricity in each of the six states would address global warming and the perennial flooding of various communities in the region.

Unfolding the initiative in Maiduguri yesterday, NEDC’s Managing Director, Mohammed Alkali, said: “The installation of solar power in the Northeast is part of the commission’s efforts to rebuild and restore critical infrastructural facilities in the insurgency-affected states. The streetlights will enhance security and facilitate socio-economic activities that could improve the living conditions of people in communities.”

Alkali said of the 2,000 solar-powered electric poles earmarked for Maiduguri: “The dark streets of Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC) and Jere Local Council will be transformed into bustling communities with various economic activities.”

According to him, the solar-powered poles will be installed at the Gidan Madara High Court complex, off Damboa Road, Mohammed Goni College of Legal and Islamic Studies, Jiddari Polo, and Simari communities. He said business owners and market women will take advantage of the secured communities to conduct their economic activities during the day and night.

“The securing of communities in the metropolis and local council will boost local economies to restore people’s livelihoods,” he said, adding: “We’re determined to create a positive impact on the livelihoods of people in the state.”

A Simari resident, Modu Bunu, noted that the streetlights are a welcome development that will enable the people to move freely without being attacked by insurgents and other criminals.