Salihijo Honoured as Solar Projects Transform Adamawa Communities
Salihijo Honoured as Solar Projects Transform Adamawa Communities
THE🎺TRUMPETNEWS
The Coalition for a Better Adamawa (CBA), in partnership with the Public Speakers Network of Africa (PSNA), has presented the Outstanding Personality Award to former Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Engr. Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, describing him as a reform-minded leader whose interventions continue to touch lives several years after implementation.
At the maiden Outstanding Personality Award hosted at Bridwood Hotel, formerly Lelewal Hotel, in Yola, community members, beneficiaries, Traditional Leaders and political figures used the occasion to share personal accounts of how Salihijo’s solar electrification initiatives have continued to provide sustainable power in communities long after his tenure.
Representing the Public Speakers Network of Africa, coordinator Halima Usman described the recognition as a continental endorsement. She explained that their research revealed visible transformation through improved electricity access, empowerment of widows and orphans, mentorship for young people, and the conversion of energy policy into platforms for human dignity.
Delivering a keynote address, Dr. Inuwa Manju commended the former MD for what he called numerous developmental initiatives, stating that citizens continue to feel their positive impact. Similarly, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of CBA, Eng. Sadiq Muhammad Inuwa, explained that the honour is part of a wider campaign to encourage civic participation, accountability and recognition of individuals whose contributions are driving meaningful development.
Responding after receiving the award, Engr. Ahmad Salihijo expressed deep appreciation, saying the ceremony offered him an emotional opportunity to meet beneficiaries physically and hear testimonies that highlighted how the projects continue to serve communities across Adamawa State. He emphasized that the award symbolised recognition of the communities themselves, noting that strategic effort was taken to reach those most in need, especially in areas with pressing development challenges.
Reflecting on the outcomes of the projects, he stated that improved access to electricity has sustained local businesses, enhanced social activities, and expanded opportunities for education and economic progress. He also highlighted the necessity of building on these interventions to ensure long-term empowerment and better living standards.
In a goodwill message, the Member representing Mayo-Belwa Constituency in the Adamawa State House of Assembly, Hon. Musa Mahmud Kallamu, expressed pride in Salihijo’s accomplishments and the transformational benefits his electrification projects have brought to communities.
Likewise, the Executive Secretary of the Adamawa State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Commission, Mallam Abubakar Salihu, recalled his encounter with Engr. Salihijo in 2021 when many local industries depended heavily on diesel and petrol to operate milling and processing machines. He explained that the introduction of solar mini-grids under Salihijo’s leadership significantly improved power supply, supported businesses and benefitted households. According to him, the interventions have earned recognition from both communities and external organisations, praying that more leaders of his calibre continue to emerge.
Beneficiaries of the projects, including Musa Baba Bare from Numan, celebrated the provision of reliable mini-grid electricity, describing how its introduction transformed economic and social activities in their areas. Another beneficiary, Mallam Salihu Mubi, reiterated that communities are strongly aligned in acknowledging the former MD’s contributions, expressing hopes that his example would inspire others to offer service that improves lives across Adamawa State.
The Governor of Adamawa State, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, represented by the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Sadiq Muhammad, presented the award. A detailed citation of the celebrant was delivered by Professor Abba Tahir.