The Gombe State Government has expanded its electricity market, opening new opportunities for investors in solar power and clean energy as part of efforts to drive sustainable development and economic growth.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, gave the assurance of a conducive business environment for investors, describing clean energy as a critical driver of job creation, industrial growth and overall development in the state.
The governor stated this while delivering a keynote address at a meeting on emerging opportunities in the Gombe State electricity sector, jointly organised by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the Gombe State Government. The event was held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya reiterated his administration’s commitment to establishing solar power plants, promoting energy solutions for agriculture and industrial use, and converting waste to energy through modern technologies to create sustainable wealth across the state.
He described the conference as a valuable platform for collaboration among the Gombe State Government, the REA and other stakeholders to expand access to affordable, reliable and sustainable electricity while reducing environmental pollution.
Highlighting Gombe’s comparative advantages, the governor noted that the state is one of the most peaceful in the North-East, with abundant sunshine, vast land, a growing energy demand and a youthful population. According to him, these factors place Gombe in a strong position to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s energy transition, provided investments, technology and partnerships are properly aligned.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya said his administration has made energy a central pillar of economic transformation, citing projects such as the installation of solar streetlights, rehabilitation of primary healthcare centres, deployment of solar-powered schools across all local government areas, and infrastructure upgrades aimed at attracting investors.
He recalled that Gombe ranked among the leading states in ease of doing business in 2021 and 2022, reflecting its investor-friendly policies.
The governor further explained that the state is taking full advantage of the 2023 Electricity Act through the enactment of the Gombe State Electricity Law 2025, which empowers the state to generate, transmit and distribute electricity, as well as establish a private electricity market.
He disclosed that the Gombe State Electricity Commission is being set up to collaborate with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to strengthen power generation, distribution and manufacturing systems within the state.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya commended the Rural Electrification Agency for its role in expanding electricity access to underserved and rural communities through mini-grid solar projects, noting that such interventions have a direct impact on small businesses, education and healthcare delivery.
He affirmed the state’s readiness to deepen its partnership with federal agencies and development partners to improve electricity supply and enhance the quality of life of residents.
The governor urged stakeholders to focus discussions beyond investment opportunities to include job creation, industrial development and the provision of sustainable power to communities.
He assured investors of the state government’s support, including land allocation, security, streamlined planning processes and expedited approvals for clean energy projects.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya also announced that in November, the state signed an agreement for a 1-megawatt power project in Talasse, Balanga Local Government Area, under a public-private partnership involving the state and local governments, the Rural Electrification Agency and Mids Dynamics Limited. He added that similar projects are planned for Shongom Local Government Area and 22 other communities across the state.
Reiterating the state’s long-term vision as outlined in the 10-year Development Agenda for Gombe State (DEVAGOM 2021–2030), the governor said the goal is to ensure that every home, school, hospital and business has access to clean, affordable and reliable energy to create jobs, reduce poverty and strengthen the economy.
He called on government institutions, development partners, investors, researchers and community leaders to collaborate with the state in harnessing clean energy opportunities that address critical economic needs.
“Let us make this conference impactful—one that enlightens our communities, strengthens our industries and delivers sustainable prosperity to the people of Gombe State,” the governor said.