Residents of the Etomi community in Cross River State have expressed gratitude to the European Union for giving their businesses and lives a much-needed boost after six years without electricity.
Thanks to the EU-funded solar mini-grid project, the entire Etomi community now enjoys reliable, clean, and affordable electricity.
The project, which supplies 119.5kW of power to over 600 households and businesses, was implemented by GIZ.
Inga Stefanowicz, Head of the Green and Digital Economy Section, EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, explained that the grid operates under a public-private partnership to ensure sustainability and long-term maintenance. A private company oversees the grid operations in partnership with the Cross River State Government.
Stefanowicz stated that the project is part of the EU’s Global Gateway initiative, designed to ensure that Nigerians have access to clean, renewable, and affordable energy.
“The provision of reliable, clean, and affordable electricity for both domestic and commercial use will significantly boost the social and economic development of the people. I am also pleased that we are extending electricity access to a cocoa-producing community, which will greatly enhance their farming activities and processes,” she added.
Cross River State Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Eka Williams, noted that the solar mini-grid project is an off-grid solution that she believes will serve the Etomi community effectively.
“I want to say a big thank you to my governor, in partnership with the EU, who made this possible. We have replicated this initiative in about four other communities within the Etung Local Government Area (LGA),” she said.
Many community residents have shared how the new solar-powered electricity has transformed their lives. Among them is John Okpa, who expressed excitement over finally having power after six long years.
“Residents of Etomi are happy because the EU has provided us with electricity after six years of darkness. We are grateful and pray for continued blessings for them,” he said.
Precious Jeremiah, another Etomi resident, revealed that she relied on a generator for seven years to run her hair-styling business, an option that came with high costs for fuel, repairs, and maintenance.
“Before the solar installation, I managed my business using a generator, which was very costly to fuel.
“Since the solar plant was installed, my customers can come in for services in a cool, clean environment, free from generator smoke and noise. I’m now able to make enough profit to support my family, including paying my children’s school fees,” she shared.
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