By Joy Odor Reportcircle News
Senator Lawal Usman has defended his growing investment in electricity and education projects across Kaduna Central Senatorial District, describing access to power, scholarships and basic infrastructure as the backbone of grassroots development and economic revival.
The Lawmaker made this position clear during an interview with journalists in his office on Thursday, explaining that his recent interventions were driven by years of hardship endured by communities cut off from electricity and opportunities.
According to Usman, several areas in the district had been in darkness for more than two years, a situation he said crippled businesses, discouraged residents and deepened poverty.
“Light is everything,” the senator said. “Without electricity, people cannot stay and businesses cannot survive. That is why we invested in transformers that will directly touch the lives of ordinary people.”
He explained that the transformer projects were deliberately designed to serve thousands of residents, easing the burden of prolonged outages and restoring economic activities in affected communities.
Beyond power supply, Sen. Usman said his constituency interventions extend to education and empowerment, particularly in Cardona and surrounding areas, as part of a broader plan to improve living standards.
He disclosed that more than 1,000 students from Kaduna Central are currently benefiting from an ongoing scholarship scheme for higher education, covering Kaduna State University, Al-Qalam University and other tertiary institutions.
According to him, the scholarship programme is structured to be sustainable, with beneficiaries supported throughout their studies.
He added that new beneficiaries would be admitted in subsequent years to ensure continuity.
On renewable energy, the senator acknowledged the growing relevance of solar power but cautioned against relying on it alone to meet community needs.
“Solar light is good, but it is not enough,” he said. “You cannot power sewing machines, welding equipment or household appliances with just solar. That is why we are complementing solar initiatives with transformer projects.”
Addressing road infrastructure, Usman assured that stalled and outstanding projects were receiving attention, revealing that key roads, including the Kabala West Road, have been captured in the current year’s project plans and would be executed.
He further explained that priority in the scholarship scheme is given to science-based courses such as engineering, medicine and agriculture, with emphasis on academic excellence and relevance to development.
Reaffirming his commitment to grassroots development, the senator said his focus remains on projects that deliver real value, improve livelihoods and expand opportunities for residents across Kaduna Central.
According to him, sustainable development begins with light in homes, access to education and functional infrastructure that allows communities to thrive.
