The Anambra State Government has put the installation of solar-powered streetlights in the Awka metropolis on hold, citing concerns over the project’s high costs.
The initiative, initially estimated to cost over ₦1 billion, was suspended following deliberations at the 35th Anambra State Executive Council meeting, held at the Government House in Awka.
During a previous council meeting, it was disclosed that contracts for the project had been awarded to three companies, with completion slated for a three-month period. However, further scrutiny revealed that the financial implications were unsustainable.
Speaking on the matter, the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, stated that the council determined the project’s unit cost to be excessively high and deemed a comprehensive review necessary.
“The council extensively debated the memo concerning the installation of solar-powered streetlights in Awka. After careful consideration, it was resolved that the unit cost of the project was unreasonably high and required a downward adjustment,” Mefor explained.
The government announced plans to revisit the proposal, emphasizing that all project specifications must be presented during the next Executive Council meeting to facilitate a more cost-effective implementation. According to Dr. Mefor, this decision demonstrates the state’s commitment to fiscal responsibility while ensuring that public funds are utilized effectively.
In a related statement, the council addressed previous announcements that the project contracts had already been awarded.
“The government acknowledges the error in prematurely stating that the project had been awarded. We regret the mistake and assure the public that updates on the project’s status will be provided once a final decision is reached,” the council concluded.
