By Sahel Reporters, Yola
The Coalition for a Better Adamawa (CBA), in partnership with the Public Speakers Network of Africa (PSNA), has honoured former Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Engr. Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, with an Outstanding Personality Award, describing him as a reformer whose projects continue to benefit communities years after implementation.
The award was presented at the maiden Outstanding Personality Award Ceremony organised by CBA at Bridwood Hotel (formerly Lelewal Hotel), Yola. Community members, project beneficiaries, and public officials shared testimonies on how Engr. Salihijo’s solar electrification interventions are still improving lives across Adamawa State long after his tenure.
Represented by its coordinator, Halima Usman, the Public Speakers Network of Africa (PSNA) described the honour as a continental affirmation of Salihijo’s contributions. She said PSNA’s research into his work revealed visible impact through increased access to electricity, empowerment of widows and orphans, youth mentorship, and the transformation of energy policy into human dignity.
Delivering a keynote address, Dr. Inuwa Manju commended Engr. Salihijo for his numerous developmental initiatives, noting that they have had far-reaching positive effects on communities.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of CBA, Engr. Sadiq Muhammad Inuwa, said the award is part of the organisation’s campaign to strengthen civic engagement, promote accountability, and celebrate individuals making meaningful contributions to development.
Receiving the award, Engr. Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad expressed deep emotion, saying that meeting beneficiaries in person for the first time and hearing their testimonies reinforced the tangible impact of his solar electrification projects across the state.
He stressed that the recognition was not just for him but also for the communities that benefited from the interventions. He reflected on the deliberate efforts required to ensure projects reached those who genuinely needed them, noting that many areas still face significant development challenges.
“Seeing the positive outcomes of these initiatives gives me deep satisfaction,” Salihijo said. “Beyond powering homes, the electricity projects support businesses, enhance social interaction, and provide opportunities for education and economic growth.”
He underscored the need to sustain such initiatives to further empower communities and improve their quality of life.
In a goodwill message, the Member representing Mayo-Belwa Constituency in the Adamawa State House of Assembly, Hon. Musa Mahmud Kallamu, expressed pride in Engr. Salihijo’s achievements, highlighting the transformational impact of his electrification projects.
Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Adamawa State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Commission, Mallam Abubakar Salihu, recalled that before 2021, local rice mills and grain processors depended heavily on diesel and petrol. He noted that the solar power grids and mini-grids introduced under Salihijo’s leadership have greatly improved electricity access, boosted businesses, and benefited households.
He added that both local communities and external organisations have recognised Engr. Salihijo’s outstanding service and prayed for more leaders of his calibre.
Beneficiaries of the projects, including Musa Baba Bare from Numan, praised the former REA MD for providing reliable mini-grid electricity that has transformed daily life and economic activities. Mallam Salihu Mubi also noted that communities strongly support recognising Salihijo’s contributions, expressing hope that his legacy will inspire other leaders to serve with similar impact.
The award was presented on behalf of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, who was represented by the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Sadiq Muhammad. A citation of the awardee was read by Professor Abba Tahir.
Sahel Reporters News
