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Tag: Electricity

  • Electricity supply: EEDC troubled by activities of vandals

    Electricity supply: EEDC troubled by activities of vandals

    The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has expressed concern over the recent vandalisation of electricity installations within its operational area in Abakaliki.

    In a statement issued by Mr Emeka Ezeh, Head of Corporate Communications, EEDC, on Sunday, said the loss of power supply in areas of Abakaliki was due to the vandalisation of the Udemezue 11KV Feeder in the early hours of the day.

    Ezeh said affected areas include Oroko-onuoha, Udensi, Kpirikpiri, Ogbaga Road, New Layout, Udemezue, Low Cost Housing Estate, and Hilltop Road, amongst others.

    According to him, notable establishments such as Amikaba, Siren Hotel, Man City Hotel, Muchels Hotel, De Pablo Hotel, and Unity FM radio station have also been impacted.

    “We wish to inform our esteemed customers in Abakaliki metropolis that the current loss of power supply being experienced is due to the vandalisation of Udemezue 11KV Feeder in the early hours of today, Jan, 5,” he said.

    Ezeh explained that the vandalisation was discovered by EEDC officials on patrol following an abnormal outage on the feeder at 02:40 a.m.

    He added that the vandals made off with approximately 16 metres of underground 150mm2 x 3core armoured underground cable from the source of the feeder.

    As a result of this incident, over 70 public and private transformers serving numerous customers under the feeder are currently without supply.

    “We sincerely regret this unprecedented development and hereby appeal to our customers for their patience and understanding as we are already working to replace the stolen/damaged items,” he said.

    He assured that power supply would be restored as soon as repairs and replacements were completed. Ezeh reaffirmed the company’s commitment to delivering improved services to its customers.

    “EEDC remains committed to delivering improved services to her esteemed customers. The company is working diligently to resolve the issue and restore power supply to the affected areas as soon as possible,” he said.

  • 2025: SSANU laments over high electricity costs in universities

    2025: SSANU laments over high electricity costs in universities

    The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has called on the Federal Government to urgently address the ongoing electricity crisis in universities across the country.

    In a New Year message on Thursday in Abuja, SSANU’s National President, Mr Mohammed Ibrahim, expressed concern about rising electricity costs in universities, stating they were hindering their ability to function effectively.

    Ibrahim emphasised that a reliable power supply was vital for the administration, teaching, research, and community service within the university system.

    “We urge the federal government to take immediate action to resolve this energy crisis, as it directly impacts students, the primary stakeholders in our universities,” Ibrahim said.

    He also highlighted SSANU’s focus on the Tax Reform Bill currently before the National Assembly, acknowledging its significant impact on the welfare of union members.

    He stressed the importance of stakeholder engagement in a democracy to ensure inclusivity, transparency, and fairness in policy-making, particularly regarding national issues.

    “SSANU is committed to participating actively in this process and will soon articulate its position, advocating for reforms that protect the interests of its members while contributing to the nation’s economic growth,” Ibrahim stated.

    Ibrahim also urged Dr Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, and his team to strengthen their relationship with SSANU, emphasising the need for the federal government to fulfil its outstanding promises to the union.

    He noted that these commitments were crucial for maintaining industrial harmony and ensuring the welfare of university staff.

    On issues of insecurity and economic challenges, SSANU reiterated its concern about the growing insecurity in the country, stressing that sustainable growth was unattainable without adequate security.

    Ibrahim called on the government to intensify efforts to tackle the issue, as it was foundational to economic prosperity and development.

    The SSANU president also acknowledged the impact of the rising cost of living, inflation, and technological challenges on its members.

    He reaffirmed the union’s commitment to advocating for policies that improve the economic and professional well-being of members and for technological upgrades to modernise Nigeria’s universities.

    “As we embark on this New Year, let us remain united and resolute in our mission to achieve fairness, equity, and justice for all members.

    “The journey ahead may be challenging, but with collective strength and solidarity, we can overcome obstacles and achieve greater milestones,” Ibrahim said.

  • How Nigerians can enjoy uninterrupted electricity supply in 2025 – Minister

    How Nigerians can enjoy uninterrupted electricity supply in 2025 – Minister

    Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu has called on Nigerians to protect power infrastructure across the country in order to enjoy uninterrupted electricity supply in the New Year 2025.

    Adelabu made the call in his New Year message via a statement by Mr  Bolaji Tunji, his Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations.

    While urging Nigerians to show patriotism in their attitudes, and dispositions, particularly towards  critical  national assets, the Minister expressed deep concern over the constant attacks and vandalism  of power infrastructure.

    He attributed the constant attack which he said had adversely affected the gains of incremental supply of electricity to households and businesses,  to lack of patriotism by those responsible.

    According to him,  the major hindrance to achieving a breakthrough in the nation’s electricity supply in the past year was the handiwork of unpatriotic Nigerians who appeared as vandals and bandits.

    “As we are ushered into the new year by the grace of the God, this is to reiterate the commitment of the ministry and all its agencies.

    “We are committed to the pragmatic and resolute promise of Mr President, to make electricity supply to all Nigerians a reality.

    ”President Bola Tinubu has repeatedly said that access to electricity is the right of all Nigerians and we have keyed into that promise, ” he said.

    Adelabu said that the ministry of power  would ensure that all Nigerians were availed of this fundamental human right.

    ”I want to call on all of us to own the power infrastructure in our different communities across the country. In doing this, we can secure and safeguard them,”  he said.

    He said that the  Federal Government made a commitment towards ensuring regular electricity supply to businesses and households in the country.

    He said that  all the agencies of the ministry were committed to achieving this. The Minister said that power  transmission lines were subjected to constant and sustained attacks.

    ”Though efforts are being made to protect these assets, we plead with all Nigerians to see these infrastructure as theirs and protect them.

    “Let us all be patriotic and appreciate the administration’s desire to provide these assets,  especially our transmissions and distribution lines.Without electricity supply, there is absolutely nothing we can do.

    ”Our industries cannot work. Our educational and health institutions will not function. I, therefore,  plead with our host communities to also own the power infrastructure, by providing protection for them .

    ”In this way, we are playing our  roles, as patriotic citizens of Nigeria. As we enter the new year, we are coming with  renewed vigour to ensure that Nigerians enjoy uninterrupted electricity supply, either through grid or non-grid supply,”he said.

    Adelabu  also reiterated  the Federal Government’s  determination to ensure that the country’ tertiary educational and health institutions benefit from the on going reforms in the power sector.

    “We wish all Nigerians a blessed, glorious and a prosperous New Year,” he said.

  • Jigawa govt aquires N1bn stake in Kano electricity company

    Jigawa govt aquires N1bn stake in Kano electricity company

    The Jigawa State Government has approved N1 billion for the payment of 10 per cent stake in the Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO).

    The Commissioner for Information, Youths, Sports and Culture, Mr Sagir Musa, said this in a statement in Dutse on Tuesday.

    He said the State Executive Council approved the release of the fund as part of effort to ensure stable power supply in the state.

    Musa said the gesture was in fulfilment of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the state government and the company, to acquire 500,000 units of the KEDCO shares from Future Energy Africa Limited, the core investors of KEDCO.

    This, he said, would enable the state government to consolidate its 7.5 per cent shareholding to 10 per cent in the company.

    “Similarly, the MoU is aimed at ensuring adequate provision of constant electricity supply to all Tier 1 urban centers and rural electrification in the state by the year 2028,” he said.

    He said the council also approved N595 million contract for the supply and installation of solar powered street lights for semi-urban towns by the Ministry of Power and Energy.

  • Electricity: Parts of FCT to experience power interruption

    Electricity: Parts of FCT to experience power interruption

    The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has announced an impending power interruption in some parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja on Sunday.

    Mrs Ndidi Mbah, TCN’s General Manager, Public Affairs,  announced this in a statement in Abuja on Saturday.

    She said that, on Sunday, between the hours of 9 a.m and 10 p.m, maintenance work would be carried out on one of the 60MVA power transformers at 132/33kV transmission substation at Kukwaba.

    ”This will result in power interruption in Wuye, EFCC, Federal Medical Centre, Coca-Cola, Idu Railway Station, Citec, and Life Camp.

    ”The TCN apologises for the inconvenience this may cause, especially given the Yuletide and end-of-the-year festivities.

    ”However, it is important that maintenance is carried out as scheduled for optimal performance of power equipment,” she said.

    Mbah noted that TCN had earlier, on Saturday, carried out similar maintenance on the 60 MVA power transformer and its associated switch gears at the Gwagwalada 330/132/33 Kilo Volt (kV) Transmission Substation.

    She said that while the maintenance lasted, there was disruption in electricity distribution in Gwagwalada and environs during the hours of 9 a.m and 1 p.m.

  • 4-month blackout: Bayelsa govt seeks alternative electricity

    4-month blackout: Bayelsa govt seeks alternative electricity

    The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Port Harcourt Region, has announced the restoration of electricity to most parts of Bayelsa following a four-month blackout. The region covers Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Imo, and Rivers states.

    The General Manager of TCN’s Port Harcourt Region, Emmanuel Anyaegbulem, made this known during a news conference on Monday in Port Harcourt, while outlining the company’s achievements in 2024. He explained that the blackout was caused by criminals who vandalised about 20 transmission towers along the Ahoada-Yenagoa 132 Kilovolt (KV) electricity lines on July 29.

    “The 132KV line is the only transmission line that supply electricity to Bayelsa state. The repairs of the collapsed towers presented a significant challenge for us, considering that the blackout lasted from July 29 until November 30, when we restored the lines,” Anyaegbulem said.

    He further noted that it cost about N13 million to construct a single transmission tower.

    “Once vandals cut off the brackets that holds a tower, the structure becomes vulnerable to the slightest breeze. After the criminals vandalised the tower, it collapsed and caused the failure of about 20 other transmission towers between Ahoada in Rivers state and Yenagoa in Bayelsa state.

    “We are delighted to have erected and restrung the 20 damaged 132KV towers after four months of hardship endured by the residents,” he added.

    Anyaegbulam also disclosed that police officers attached to TCN had  arrested about 10 suspects caught vandalising the company’s facilities in the region in 2024. He said that out of the 10 suspects arrested, four had already been convicted by the courts, while six remained in police custody.

    In spite of these challenges, the general manager stated that the company achieved significant milestones during the outgoing year.

    “This includes the installation of a 100 Megavolt-Amperes (MVA) power transmission transformer at the Port Harcourt main transmission substation, as well as the rehabilitation of the 132/33KV switch yard. We also took delivery of a 150MVA 330/33KV power transformer at TCN’s Adjabo transmission substation within the Port Harcourt main transmission substation.

    “Other achievements include the upgrade of the Itu 132/33KV transmission substation with the addition of a 60MVA transformer, three outgoing feeders, digital control panels, circuit breakers, isolators among others, he said.

    Anyaegbulem reiterated the company’s commitment to providing electricity to Distribution Companies (DisCos) to enable them to ensure uninterrupted power supply to customers.

    Bayelsa intensify effort at establishing 60,000MW turbine

    Meanwhile, the Bayelsa State government has said it is intensifying efforts to establish  independent power plants to ensure stable power supply in the state.

    Mr Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, the state acting governor. stated this on Monday in a meeting with the leadership of Imiringi Community and some stakeholders of Ogbia Local Government, including the Obanobhan of Ogbia Kingdom, King Charles Owaba in Yenagoa.

    He said government was partnering some Chinese investors to site a power plant by the existing gas turbine belonging to the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) at Elebele.

    Ewhrudjakpo said that efforts were also underway to refurbish the state-owned Imiringi gas turbine in Ogbia LGA of Bayelsa.

    He said: “when the turbine comes on stream, it is expected to supply electricity to Ogbia and Yenagoa local government areas.

    “While the second plant would serve Kolokuma/Opokuma, Sagbama and Ekeremor LGAs, to do away with the current total dependence on the national grid.

    “Subsequently, government will provide a third power plant to generate and distribute electricity to Nembe, Brass and Southern Ijaw councils in line with the Douye Diri-led administration’s A.S.S.U.R.E.D Agenda in the power sector.

    “We are working hard to see how we can get independent power. We are working with some investors to get another power plant by the Elebele Gas Turbine that belongs to the Local Content which will generate about 60,000 Mega Watts.

    “And the plant at Imiringi, when refurbished will supply electricity to Ogbia and Yenagoa local government areas to resolve the problem of epileptic power from the national grid.”

    He offered an unreserved apology to the people of Imiringi over the power ministry’s attempt to move out the turbine transformers for refurbishment without properly notifying the community.

    This, he attributed to communication gap between the Elebele community and government, stating that government’s intention was to take out the transformers to refurbish them and bring them back to improve power supply in the state.

    “Government’s intention was to take the transformers out for refurbishment and see how we can start the gas turbine but our intention was misunderstood.

    “We take full responsibility for the communication gap, because of the exigencies of government, we could not adequately inform the community of government’s intention to take out the facility for refurbishment.

    “On behalf of the government, we apologize for the mix up which almost cost a near fracas.”

    Speaking on behalf government officials from Ogbia, the Chief Whip of the Bayelsa House of Assembly and member representing Ogbia Constituency 2, Hon. Gabriel Ogbara, thanked the Acting governor for his prompt intervention in he matter.

    In his remarks, spokesman of the Imiringi Community and retired Director in the Ministry of Environment, Chief Naru Okpu, expressed gratitude to the acting governor for convening the meeting.

    He described the Kolo Creek gas turbines as one of the legacies of the late Chief Melford Okilo and expressed confidence in the present administration’s commitment towards restoring electricity to the area.

  • Cross River LGA sees light after 15 years of darkness

    Cross River LGA sees light after 15 years of darkness

    The Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC) has restored power supply to Bekwarra Local Government Area of Cross River after 15 years in darkness.

    The people commended the Sen. Bassey Otu led administration for keeping to his campaign promise of restoring power supply to the council when elected.

    Mr Innocent Inaku, PHEDC Branch Manager for Cross River North and Central, particularly commended governor Otu for the feat.

    He said that the Area was thrown into darkness for such a long period due to vandalism and obsolete power infrastructure.

    “The whole of Bekwarra has been in darkness for more than a decade and the governor directed the state rural electrification agency to develop a plan action to reconnect and rehabilitate the power network in phases,” Inaku explained.

    According to him, power supply have not been restored to the entire council area, noting that this will be gradual.

    “As part of the project’s first phase, six transformers have been provided in key locations across Bekwarra, including: Ijibor, by the roadside, the Catholic Church, Ijibor Ugboro, St. Augustine Primary School, Ukpa, St Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Upa, Afrike Community, Afrike, number one

    “Two of the six transformers, those at the Catholic Church in Ijibo and Ugboro have already been energised, bringing electricity back to parts of the community.

    “However, the work is not without its challenges. After such a long time without power, there are bound to be network issues as we energise the transformers. We are addressing these issues in phases to ensure long-term reliability.

    “Another challenge is the lack of a local transmission station. We depend on the supply from Abakaliki in Ebonyi state, which makes the process slower.

    “Despite these obstacles, the project is moving forward. Once the initial six transformers are fully operational, the next phase will extend supply to communities such as Anyekam, Ibiaragidi, Begam, and Abuchiche,” he stated.

    Meanwhile, the Ada Bekwarra (traditional head) of the council area, Signor Omang, has described the governor as “God-sent leader.”

    He said that restoration of power supply to the local government will help improve the economy of the area as well as quality of life.

    “I want to particularly appreciate the governor for heeding our cry after I had led a delegation to his office in April to remind him of his campaign promise.

    “Our major concern was light. We also discussed health centers, water problems, and rural roads, but we emphasised that our priority is light.

    “Bekwarra was thrown into jubilation over this light issue. For several years, we have been in the dark. We know the importance of electricity; it impacts in the economy, especially for artisans.

    “If you are a welder, a carpenter, or a tailor, you rely on electricity to operate your machines. Hairdressers also need light for their work. This restoration improves the local economy, particularly given the high costs of diesel and fuel,” he said.

    Omang highlighted the struggles faced by local businesses due to the lack of electricity.

    According to him, “Many people trained their children through these businesses, but the absence of light has forced so many out of business. Yet, in just a year and a half, Bekwarra now has light.

    “This is a governor who truly cares about the people. Years ago, we were running from one official to another, even to the Minister of State for Power, but all our efforts were in vain. Now, we are finally having light.

    “For many in Bekwarra, this restoration of power is more than just the return of electricity, it’s a sign of progress, a rekindling of hope,” he said.

  • Namadi signs Jigawa electricity commission law

    Namadi signs Jigawa electricity commission law

    Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa has signed the Jigawa State Electricity Regulatory Commission bill into law.

    This is contained in a statement by Hamisu Mohammed, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, on Monday in Dutse.

    He said the governor assented to the bill passed by the state House of Assembly, as part of effort to enhance electricity regulation and access.

    According to him, the mandate of the commission include overseeing electricity generation, transmission, system operation, distribution and supply.

    This, he said, aimed at enhancing electricity access for residents of the state, while fostering an environment conducive to private sector investment via public private partnerships to improve energy infrastructure and service delivery.

    Mohammed said the law would support development of diverse electricity solutions including grid, mini grid and off grid systems, utilising both renewable and non renewable energy sources to meet the state’s growing energy demands.

    “This law is a vital step towards sustainable development and economic growth in Jigawa state. By strengthening electricity regulation and promoting innovative energy solutions, we aim to create a more reliable and inclusive energy ecosystem for our people.” Namadi was quoted as saying in the statement.

    While reiterating commitment to viable programmes to meet the energy needs, Namadi said the development would improve electricity availability and stimulate economic growth in the state.

    The governor had earlier created the Ministry of Power and Renewable Energy.

  • After 4 months of blackout, Bayelsa finally gets power supply

    After 4 months of blackout, Bayelsa finally gets power supply

    The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) says it has  restored bulk power supply to  Bayelsa through the Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV transmission line at 08:03am  on Tuesday.

    Mrs Ndidi Mbah, TCN’s General Manager, Public Affairs in a statement in Abuja on Tuesday. She said that the restoration followed the successful reconstruction of the collapsed towers and restringing of vandalised conductors by TCN contractors.

    Mbah said that a final inspection of work done, was conducted on Nov. 28,  by a team of TCN engineers, led by  Mr Emmanuel Akpa, Port-Harcourt Region General Manager.

    ”The team verified the integrity of the 20 newly erected towers Nos. 48–64 and 97–99 that were destroyed in a series of vandalism incidents on July 29 and Aug. 12.

    ”After confirming that all work met required standards, the line was cleared for energisation,”she said.

    Mbah said that on the other hand, discussions are underway with stakeholders in Bayelsa and Rivers to implement a comprehensive community engagement programme.

    According to her, this initiative seeks to educate local communities traversed by the transmission line on the consequences of vandalism and theft of power infrastructure.

    She said that additionally, the programme would  involve appointing community representatives to oversee the security of power equipment in their areas.

    “This approach aims to foster a sense of local ownership and accountability for the infrastructure. These efforts are part of broader measures to prevent future incidents of large-scale vandalism, which left Bayelsa  in total blackout since July 29.

    “The economic losses incurred by residents, as well as the significant financial burden on TCN to restore the towers, have been substantial. TCN appeals to the public to support the nationwide campaign against  vandalism of power infrastructure.

    “Collective action is essential to safeguarding the country’s electricity assets for sustainable development, ”she said.

  • Lagos to get independent power supply in six months

    Lagos to get independent power supply in six months

    Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday signed into law the Lagos State Electricity Bill 2024, saying the bill’s sole aim is to ensure independent power supply to residents.

    Governor Sanwo-Olu at the signing held in Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja, said the implementation would start in the next six months.

    “The objective of the law includes establishing a Lagos Electricity Market that is technically sound, financially viable, and well-regulated, ensuring access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity for all citizens.

    “The law will allow establishment of critical institutions to manage and oversee the electricity market which include the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission, for independent oversight, regulatory compliance and licensing.

    “I will describe the law as a watershed in the production and distribution of electricity in the state, this will enhance productivity of our dear beloved Lagosians.

    “With the establishment of agencies like the Lagos Independent System Operator (ISO) for ensuring system reliability and operational efficiency

    “Also the Lagos State Electrification Agency is saddled with expanding electricity access to underserved communities,” he said.

    Similarly, Mr Sabur Oluwa, Chairman, House Committee on Energy and Mineral Resources, Lagos State House of Assembly, said the bill sought to provide for the creation and administration of Lagos electricity market.

    Also, Mr Biodun Ogunleye, the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, said the implementation of the law is scheduled to commence within six months after securing the Federal Government’s approval.

    The Lagos State Electricity Law 2024 is a comprehensive plan of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s resolve to address longstanding challenges in the energy sector.

    The law would lay a robust foundation for economic growth, fostering industrial growth, improved quality of life, energy equity, economic prosperity, and environmental sustainability.

    The Electricity Act enables sub-national governments to generate and distribute electricity.

    Before signing of the bill, Lagos electricity bill had a demand of about 12,000 megawatts (MW), which is about 90 per cent of the current national installed 13,000MW capacity.

    The current 4,000MW being targeted by the government is only 13.33 per cent of the actual needs of the commercial city.

    Present at the signing of the bill were; the Deputy Governor, Dr Femi Hamzat, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Pedro Lawal and Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, among others.