IKWERRE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA
Office of the Adviser on Energy
Internal Memorandum
To:
Hon. Executive Chairman
Ikwerre Local Government Area
From:
Justice Ezihuo Chigonum
Adviser on Energy
Date: 4th December 2025
Subject: Urgent Recommendation for Installation of Solar-Powered Lighting Systems in All Primary Health Centres (PHCs)
Chairman Sir,
Following my recent assessment tour across the fourteen (14) Primary Health Centres in Ikwerre Local Government Area, I observed with deep concern that none of the facilities currently has a functional or reliable source of electric power. This situation has resulted in severe operational limitations, especially in the labour wards, which are only used effectively during daylight hours.
This challenge exposes pregnant women who go into labour at night to unnecessary risk, including complications that could lead to loss of life for both mother and child. It also affects the safe storage of temperature-sensitive medicines, as the refrigerators in the PHCs remain largely unused due to lack of power supply.
To address these urgent gaps, I humbly recommend the installation of Solar-Powered Lighting Systems in all PHCs across the LGA. Below are the key justifications for this investment:
1. Improved Maternal and Child Health Outcomes
Reliable lighting in labour wards—especially at night—will empower health workers to manage deliveries efficiently, respond to emergencies, and prevent avoidable deaths. This aligns with both state and national priorities for reducing maternal mortality.
2. Safe Storage of Medicines and Vaccines
Solar systems with battery backup will provide stable power to refrigerators, ensuring that vital medicines, vaccines, and laboratory reagents remain potent and safe for use. This will significantly improve the quality of healthcare delivery.
3. Cost-Effective and Sustainable Energy Solution
Solar power is a one-time investment with low maintenance costs. In contrast, generators require constant fueling and repairs, which are often unsustainable for PHCs. Solar systems will guarantee 24/7 access to electricity without recurring expenses.
4. Enhanced Staff Productivity and Morale
Health workers will feel safer and more motivated to provide round-the-clock services when their working environment is well lit and properly powered. This will improve attendance, efficiency, and community trust in the health system.
5. Strengthening the Administration’s Public Image
Implementing solar-powered systems in all PHCs will stand as a visible achievement of your administration—demonstrating commitment to modernizing healthcare, protecting vulnerable populations, and delivering practical, people-centered governance.
6. Community Confidence and Security
A well-lit health centre also improves overall security around the facility, encouraging community members to seek care at any hour without fear.
Conclusion and Request
Given the urgency and importance of this matter, I respectfully request your approval to commence planning and procurement for installing solar-powered lighting systems in all PHCs. This initiative will save lives, improve service delivery, and leave a lasting legacy of progress in the health sector of Ikwerre LGA.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for your continued leadership and support.
Respectfully submitted,
Justice Ezihuo Chigonum
Adviser on Energy
Ikwerre Local Government Area