The Federal Government said it is making efforts to improve electricity supply in the country that will enhance economic and social activities.
Speaking to journalists during a site visit to some Hydro Power Project sites in Zungeru, Kainji and Jebba all in Niger State, the Deputy Director, Energy Resources in the Ministry of Power, Works and Housing (Power Sector), Engineer Olatubosun Owoeye made this known, saying that the projects would not only increase power generation in the country, but would also improve the economic activities of the host communities. He further stated that works which is at 45 per cent completion level at the Zungeru 700MW Hydro Power Plant would be completed as scheduled and urged the National Assembly to appropriate more funds to the project.
During the visit, the Management of Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited, operators of the Kainji and Jebba Hydro Power Plants, said it has reached agreement with six companies to sell bulk electricity directly to them. Engineer Lamu Audu said the adoption of the eligible customer rule would not only help resolve the financial challenge currently facing GenCos but would enable them attract new investments. He described the situation where GenCos generate power but was rejected by the transmission company of Nigeria (TCN) and distribution companies (DisCos) due to lack of infrastructure as not only frustrating, but huge loss to them as they were not paid for such waste. Lamu disclosed that his company has reached agreement with six companies to supply them power directly as a result of the eligible customer rule”. According to him, “This move will lead to the revival of moribund companies which were closed because of power supply”.
