By Muhammad Nasir

The Sokoto State Government has launched the distribution of solar-powered electronics to small-scale businesses in Sokoto South and Sokoto North Local Government Areas.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Commissioner for Energy and Petroleum Resources, Alhaji Sanusi Danfulani, said the initiative targeted no fewer than 5,000 beneficiaries across the 23 LGAs of the state.

“This programme is part of the activities marking the second anniversary of Gov. Ahmed Aliyu’s administration.

“It aims to enhance access to renewable energy and promote sustainable power solutions,” he said.

Danfulani explained that the intervention was one of the several measures being implemented to reduce the challenges caused by unstable electricity supply from the national grid.

He assured that the initiative would be extended to cover the entire state as part of efforts to boost small businesses and stimulate economic growth, in line with the Governor’s nine-point Smart Agenda.

Also speaking, Malam Muhammad Garba, Director of Renewable Energy at the ministry, urged the beneficiaries to use the solar-powered machines responsibly and efficiently.

Garba called on the residents of the state to harness the benefits of solar energy to improve their livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.

According to him, the project underscores the government’s commitment to exploring alternative renewable energy sources to address persistent power challenges.

Some of the beneficiaries expressed gratitude to Aliyu, describing the initiative as a clear demonstration of his administration’s commitment to transforming the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the items distributed included solar panels, solar-powered standing fans, solar-powered light valves and stabilisers, among other components.

Meanwhile, Aliyu has signed the 2024 Electricity Act into law, establishing the Sokoto State Electricity Regulatory Commission.

The commission will be responsible for regulating the electricity market in the state, in accordance with the 2023 Electricity Act, which empowers subnational governments to develop and manage electricity infrastructure within their jurisdictions. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani