The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has revived nightlife in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, by installing solar-powered streetlights in Polo, Jiddari, Dikwa Lowcost, Mogolis, Old GRA, and other strategic locations across the city.
During an inspection tour of the solar-powered streetlights and drainage clearance in Maiduguri and Jere on Tuesday, NEDC Managing Director Goni Alkali stated that these projects aim to enhance security and boost economic activities.
He highlighted how the once-dark streets of Maiduguri have been transformed into bustling hubs of activity, with residents and business owners taking advantage of the newfound safety and security.
Alkali also announced that the commission has embarked on clearing one million meters of drainage systems across Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Taraba, Bauchi, and Gombe states, creating jobs and promoting healthier communities.
According to Alkali, the project has transformed the city, which was previously plagued by darkness and insecurity, into a lively hub of activity.
“Residents can now move freely and conduct business at night, boosting the local economy. We are determined to make a positive impact on the lives of the people of the North East,” he said.
Speaking on drainage clearance, Alkali emphasized the importance of proper waste disposal and management, warning that clogged drains could lead to flooding and damage to properties and newly constructed roads.
“We are addressing global warming and flooding issues head-on. In the North East, we are desilting one million meters of drainage across six states.
In Maiduguri and Jere, we are evacuating 300,000 meters of drainage systems in communities like Gwange, Bulumkutu, Numeri Korongoso, Lawan Bukar, Shehuri, and others within the LGAs of Maiduguri and Jere,” he said.
Alkali also disclosed that the commission is constructing new drains to ensure the free flow of water and discourage the development of shanties.
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He urged residents to support the commission’s efforts and to avoid disposing of waste in the drains.
The installation of the streetlights is part of the NEDC’s broader efforts to rebuild and restore critical infrastructure in the region, which has been devastated by years of insurgency and conflict.
Alkali explained that the streetlights will enhance security, facilitate economic activities, and improve the overall quality of life for residents, particularly in areas ravaged by insurgency and conflict.
He reiterated the commission’s commitment to providing infrastructure that supports the well-being and prosperity of the people of the North-East.
Reacting to this development, a resident of Maiduguri, Alhaji Bukar said, “This is a welcome development. We can now move around freely at night without fear of attack or robbery.”
