To revamp Nigeria’s industries and ensure thriving economy, the Federal Government has reaffirmed its determination to boost electricity supply.
The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, said this during a stakeholders meeting with the management of the Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) on Thursday in Kano.
Adelabu said his mission in Kano was to engage with critical stakeholders, including KEDCO, to identify and tackle obstacles hindering their optimal performance.
He emphasised the need to revamp the transmission architecture which currently relies heavily on Shiroro and Jos channels.
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“This radial system leaves the Northern region vulnerable to electricity disruptions whenever issues arise with these lines,” he said.
To address this, the minister advocated the establishment of independent power sources within states’ metropolis to support the National Grid.
He said that exploring alternative power sources to serve as backup to the national grid became necessary with a view to curtailing future collapse of the national grid.
“This proactive approach aims to ensure that the region is prepared for any eventuality, including vandalism or national grid collapse,” he said.
Adelabu recognised the crucial roles played by various stakeholders in achieving these objectives.
He, therefore, urged state governments to provide alternative electricity sources.
Adelabu also urged Discos ensure reliable distribution electricity, adding that consumers should use electricity efficiently.
He said there were entities willing to invest in in Kano’s power sector, adding that he would discuss alternative solutions with Gov. Abba Yusuf to prevent future blackouts.
The minister expressed dismay at the metering process, saying information available to him indicated that only 33 per cent of electricity consumers had meters.
He, therefore, urged KEDCO and other Discos across the country to intensify efforts to make meters available to consumers.