The European Union (EU)in collaboration with the Abia State Government has launched a N4.840,700,800billion solar power project aimed at 24/7 electrifying of over 25 Primary health centers and businesses across approximately 25 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across 17 local government areas. 

This initiative, supported by the European Union (EU), aims to improve healthcare services, particularly in rural areas, by ensuring a reliable power supply for diagnostic equipment, vaccine storage, and medication preservation. 

Governor Alex C. Otti said on Tuesday during the launch at the Deputy Government office,Government house in Umuahia that his administration is committed to strengthening healthcare infrastructure , further boosting local economic activities of the State.

The Governor ,who was represented by the Deputy Governor of the State Engr Ikechukwu Emetu stated that this initiative will not only transform the health care system in the State but will bring life to the communities.

He noted that the move will support more economic development in surrounding locations and equally accumulate an overall improvement in the living conditions of the people.

"I would like to specially appreciate our partners from the European Union (EU) for choosing Abia as one of the few states to participate in this round of the project.

" This is a great honour, and we do not take it lightly.

" On behalf of the Government of Abia State, I would like to convey the collective gratitude of our people to the leadership of the EU in Brussels for bringing this excellent initiative to our State. 

"I would also like to thank the implementing partners, NTU International, for their hard work and commitment to the long term success of this project.

Mr Tinyan Ogiehor, the Senior Stakeholder, Engagement Manager of NISHP, noted that NISHP was funded by EU in collaboration with the Abia State Government to particularly improve health outcomes in the state.

"This initiative, supported by the European Union (EU), aims to improve healthcare services, particularly in rural areas, by ensuring a reliable power supply for diagnostic equipment, vaccine storage, and medication preservation. 

The project focuses on equipping 25 PHCs across the state's 17 LGAs with solar power. 

The European Union is supporting the NISHP, which underscores their commitment to renewable energy and healthcare. 

"The Abia State government is also contributing 30% counterpart funding to the project. 

"The initiative aims to enhance diagnostic equipment operation, vaccine storage, and medicine preservation, leading to better healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas, and support growth of local SMEs around these health facilities.

"The solar power project is expected to benefit 50 plus small businesses operating within the facilities, further boosting local economic activities. 
Commitment to PHC 

According to him, 
a ten-member Steering Committee, chaired by the Commissioner for Power Abia State, is overseeing the project's implementation.