Date: 2019-11-08

An engineer mounting a solar panel As part of an effort to address power challenge in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, a Non- Governmental Organisation (NGO), Salman Shagaya Foundation, has begun the installation of solar light panels within the metropolis.

The project, according to the foundation’s Press Secretary, Ibraheem Abdullateef, commenced on Monday at Omoda and environs with a total of 100 houses benefitting in the area. The gesture would also be replicated in the coming days in other parts of Ilorin West local government area.

The Foundation had earlier announced during their last quarterly empowerment programme in September that a total of 4,000 households in Kwara would benefit from the solar project in Kwara upon completion.

The Chairman, Alhaji Sheriff Shagaya, explained that the Solar Intervention Scheme (SIS) was designed to provide alternative electricity and improve security, especially at night, in selected communities.

He added that the foundation aims to support government's efforts to improve the standard of living for the people. The solar panels may be used to charge phones, run standing fan, rechargeable lamps and radio set, amongst other accessories.

Residents of Omoda and Ode-Alausa Agbaji axis of the community have since been praying for the foundation over the latest philanthropic efforts. "Our community does not enjoy power supply, mostly at night. We are very grateful to the foundation for this project. No doubt, it will help tremendously," said a resident, Mr. Shehu Onisese of Agbaji area, Ilorin.

Lawyer Aliu Alarape Salman (SAN) called on God to enrich the founder to do more for the people of Kwara state, saying this initiative, alongside the quarterly Relief Money Scheme, has revealed Alhaji Sheriff as a kind-hearted person.

"He keeps putting smiles on our faces. Barely two months ago he gave old people, widows and artisans N10,000 relief money each. We cannot thank the foundation enough but we ask God to reward them abundantly," he said.

Meanwhile, Hon. Shagaya has urged residents of the benefitting communities and other members of the public to support the solar engineers working on the project to aid timely completion.