- FG and REA deploy a 1.5 MW hybrid mini-grid to provide reliable power for the hospital, including its new 1.5 Tesla MRI machine.
- The intervention reduces generator dependence and operational costs, easing financial pressure on hospitals and improving patient access to critical diagnostics.
The Federal Government has launched a 1.5-megawatt solar hybrid mini-grid at the National Orthopaedic Hospital in Dala, Kano, to provide reliable and affordable electricity for medical services. The Rural Electrification Agency’s Managing Director, Abba Abubakar-Aliyu, announced the inauguration on Thursday during a ceremony in Kano.
The event also included the handover of a 1.5-Tesla MRI machine donated by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company. Abubakar-Aliyu said the solar project is part of President Bola Tinubu’s National Public Sector Solarisation Initiative, which aims to improve electricity supply in health, education, agriculture and security.
He said the hospital, established in 1959, was chosen for its history of specialised care and rising energy needs. “The Honourable Minister of Power has directed us to enhance reliability, affordability and sustainability of electricity in key public institutions,” Abubakar-Aliyu said. He added that the mini-grid would support the hospital’s new MRI machine and follow similar projects in 15 federal universities.
Chief Medical Director Dr Nurudeen Isa described the project as lifesaving. He said hospitals rely heavily on diesel generators, which are costly and unsustainable, and the MRI machine needs 24-hour power. “This intervention will cut costs and make services, including MRI scans, more affordable for patients,” Isa said. He thanked the President and the REA for the timely support.