The Niger State Government has commenced the payment of compensation to landowners in Maikunkele, Bosso Local Government Area, whose farmlands will be utilised for the development of a 100-megawatt solar power project.
The payment is being coordinated by the state Ministry of Power and Renewable Energy as part of efforts to facilitate the implementation of the renewable energy project.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Muhammad Gana, described the project as a significant development for Maikunkele and Niger State at large.
He said the project, upon completion, would improve electricity supply, boost revenue generation, create employment opportunities and stimulate economic activities in the area.
Dr. Gana added that the project would also contribute to the provision of basic amenities, including schools and primary healthcare facilities.
He urged the affected communities to embrace the project as an opportunity for development rather than a setback.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Bosso Local Government Area, Hon. Abdullahi Usman Laka, described the project as an opportunity for young people in the area to benefit from employment opportunities and improved infrastructure.
Laka said the initiative was in line with the development agenda of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, popularly known as the Farmer Governor.
He urged the affected communities, particularly those who had received compensation, to continue supporting the government to ensure the successful completion of the project.
The District Head of Maikunkele, Alhaji Suleiman Abdullahi Dada, appealed to individuals claiming that the government had taken over their farmlands to reconsider their positions.
He said the government had fulfilled its responsibility by compensating the affected landowners.
Representing the Emir of Minna, Alhaji Dr. Umar Faruq Bahago, Alhaji Muhammad Abubakar Dallatu Minna said the 100-megawatt solar power project would promote economic development and create employment opportunities for residents of Maikunkele and Niger State.
He called on residents to support the government towards the successful completion of the project.
One of the beneficiaries, Musa Jimuti, expressed appreciation to the Niger State Government, under the leadership of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, for fulfilling its commitment to compensate those affected by the project.
Jimuti, however, appealed to the government to prioritise youths from the area in the provision of employment opportunities during the construction and implementation of the solar power project.
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