Gavi and UNICEF have officially handed over the Primary Health Care Solarisation Project to the Nigerian government, covering 371 solar-powered PHCs across 17 states.
At the Abuja ceremony, Health Minister Prof. Ali Pate said the project will improve access to essential services in off-grid communities, strengthen vaccine cold-chain systems, and ensure uninterrupted healthcare delivery.
“The foundations of a resilient health system have been laid and are being strengthened through domestic resource mobilisation by both the Federal Government and states, complemented by development partners,” Pate noted.
He highlighted Nigeria’s progress in immunisation, including one of Africa’s largest integrated vaccination campaigns targeting 100 million children, supported by over $100 million from Gavi.
The minister also confirmed that upcoming shipments of the HPV vaccine would address shortages, while stressing that sustaining gains requires increased investment by government and households. “Healthcare is not cheap; it is an investment,” he said.
NPHCDA CEO/ED Dr. Muyi Aina explained that the solarisation targeted zero-dose communities where many children had missed vaccination. “Through this collaboration with Gavi and UNICEF, 371 PHCs now have solar power, water, sanitation, and manpower,” he said.
FCT Health Mandate Secretary Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, speaking for beneficiary states, praised the initiative as a boost to stronger health systems, improved immunisation, and renewed hope for underserved communities.
The solarised PHCs are expected to enhance service delivery, particularly in areas with unreliable electricity, and support routine immunisation in Nigeria’s 100 zero-dose LGAs where children remain unvaccinated.
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