Katsina Partners French Coys On Expanding Electricity

The Katsina State Government has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ocean Solutions Energie to expand access to sustainable electricity.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda and his special adviser on Power and Energy, Dr Hafiz Ibrahim Ahmed signed the MoU following critical engagement with development partners and industry experts in Paris, France.

Ocean Solution Energie, a French-based company specialised in co-developing renewable energy projects in Africa, was represented by its Chairman, Mr Minkaila Salami. Salami shared a vision with the Katsina State Government to advance renewable energy solutions, support Nigeria’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, and expand access to sustainable electricity.

A statement by the chief press secretary to the Governor, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, released in Abuja on Sunday, said that in line with these objectives, Radda revealed plans to establish a mini hydroelectric power station as part of a pilot project.

The Governor noted that the initiative will focus on providing reliable, renewable energy to local communities and will serve as a model for future hydroelectric developments across the State’s 43 dams.

He said, ” The Katsina State Government is committed to providing financial support to ensure the successful installation and long-term sustainability of the power station.”

Radda stated that the pilot project, which is located in Danja Dam, is designed to provide energy to critical local infrastructure, including irrigation systems, a water treatment plant, small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), and households.

Also, the Katsina State Government unveiled plans to revamp the 10MW Wind Farm in Lambar Rimi after it had been moribund for nearly two decades.

Governor Radda made this known during a meeting with Vergnet Groupe,  the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMS) in Paris, France.

The governor, accompanied by his Special Adviser on Power and Energy, Ahmed, disclosed that the State Government was committed to working closely with Vergnet Group to rehabilitate this viral asset and restore its capacity to support the State’s growing energy needs.

Emphasising the wind farm’s importance to the region’s energy infrastructure, Governor Radda said his administration remained dedicated to ensuring its sustainable operation in accordance with Nigeria’s Renewable Energy Master Plan and the 2060 net-zero goals.

The governor also included plans for a 10MW Solar Farm to complement the wind project. This project will provide clean, renewable energy to power approximately 4,400 homes across Katsina.

“These projects are integral to Katsina State’s vision to become a leading renewable energy hub in Nigeria and contribute to the country’s broader transition to a sustainable energy future,” Radda added.