Yobe Lands $5m World Bank Grant to Power Top Hospitals and Universities with Solar; Governor Buni Moves to Slash Diesel Costs and End Blackouts

Yobe State is preparing for a “bright” transformation in its public services as it secures a landmark $5 million grant from the World Bank. Details emerged of a strategic plan to move the state’s most critical hospitals and universities off the traditional power grid and onto sustainable solar energy.

The initiative, “flipped the script” on the state’s energy crisis over the weekend when the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport and Energy, Dr. Mustapha Abba Geidam, announced the release of the funds. The “Solution” involves installing high-tech rooftop solar systems at six key locations, including the Specialist Hospitals in Potiskum, Geidam, and Buni Yadi, as well as Yobe State University. For years, these institutions have struggled with the rising price of diesel and “epileptic” power supply, which officials say has “enormously hindered” life-saving healthcare and academic research.

Governor Mai Mala Buni’s administration facilitated the grant through a partnership with the Federal Rural Electrification Agency (REA). Beyond just providing light, the project is expected to save the state millions of naira in monthly operational costs. “We are moving toward a model where our doctors can perform surgeries and our students can study at night without worrying about the next blackout,” a government spokesperson stated.

Feasibility studies have already confirmed that the buildings at the selected sites are structurally ready for the solar panels. As the project moves into the implementation phase, Yobe is being positioned as a leader in Northern Nigeria’s transition to renewable energy. For residents in Potiskum and Damaturu, this isn’t just about technology—it’s about ensuring that the most vital institutions in the state are never left in the dark again.