By Muhammad Amaan
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has said the installation of solar power systems in two primary health centres in Nigeria has significantly improved service delivery, reduced disruptions and enhanced patient care.
In a statement published on its website on Saturday, the WHO said unreliable electricity remains a major challenge in Nigeria’s primary healthcare system, with about 40 to 50 per cent of facilities affected, putting essential services at risk.
The organisation noted that health workers in facilities such as Rumuigbo Primary Health Centre in Rivers State previously struggled with frequent power outages, often resorting to torchlights and mobile phone lights during emergencies.
“You cannot tell a mother in pain to wait because the light is gone,” a Community Health Extension Worker, Alaba Douglas, said, recalling years of power challenges.
The WHO explained that in early 2025, the Federal Ministry of Health, in collaboration with state authorities and with support from the agency through the HealthCREST initiative, installed solar power systems in two centres in Rivers and Akwa Ibom states.
Each facility was equipped with a 5-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system and battery storage to guarantee uninterrupted electricity supply for critical services.
According to the statement, the intervention has reduced service disruptions by more than 80 per cent, with the facilities now providing round-the-clock immunisation, maternity care and emergency services.
At Rumuigbo PHC, nighttime deliveries increased from about 40 to over 50 per month, while generator fuel costs dropped significantly.
“We no longer fear losing vaccines,” said Blessing Nangibo, a Local Government Immunisation Officer, noting that stable electricity has improved vaccine storage and reliability.
Patients also confirmed improved care, with one mother, Onwumeh Kikachianyi Mavis, saying, “The lights stayed on throughout my labour. I felt safe, and care was steady.”
The WHO said the project also reduced carbon emissions, boosted the confidence of health workers and strengthened community trust in health facilities.
“Reliable power is essential for safe delivery, vaccination and emergency care,” said the WHO Representative in Nigeria, Pavel Ursu, adding that the pilot demonstrates how clean energy can strengthen primary healthcare.
Similarly, the Director of Climate Change and Environmental Health at the Federal Ministry of Health, Zakari Mohammed, said the initiative offers a scalable model, stressing that communities are already reaping the benefits.
The WHO added that the intervention was implemented in partnership with government agencies and supported with funding from the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
It stressed that while the pilot has delivered positive results, thousands of primary health centres across Nigeria still lack reliable electricity, underscoring the need for expanded investment and support.
