Title: Borno State and Ministry of Power collaborate to improve access to electricity
Introduction:
Borno State, in northeastern Nigeria, is working closely with the Ministry of Power to provide better access to electricity to its communities. This commitment was confirmed during a visit by Borno Governor, Zulum, to the Minister of Energy, Adelabu. This collaboration highlights the importance of state involvement in providing electricity infrastructure and paves the way for new opportunities for state-federal collaboration.
Significant investments in electricity infrastructure:
Governor Zulum highlighted during his visit that his administration had already invested over N500 million in the purchase of transformers for different communities in Borno State. This initiative demonstrates the local government’s commitment to improving access to electricity for its residents. The Minister of Power, Adelabu, welcomed the action and stressed the importance of collaboration between the Federal Government and the states to ensure regular supply of electricity.
Strengthen the transmission network:
Adelabu also mentioned that the Federal Government is undertaking significant expansion projects on the transmission network in order to increase the supply of electricity to load centers. These projects aim to strengthen the existing transmission network and create alternative transmission corridors to avoid network outages. The Minister highlighted that the Electricity Act, 2023 allows states to participate in the electricity market, thereby creating an enabling environment for their involvement.
Agency interventions and infrastructure security:
Adelabu clarified that by law, distribution companies are responsible for the provision of electricity infrastructure, while the federal and local governments can step in to provide support. He also mentioned that agencies such as the Rural Electrification Agency step in to electrify communities that are not profitable for distribution companies. The Minister finally stressed the importance of ensuring the security of electricity infrastructure in Borno State, particularly in response to the recent destruction of electricity pylons which resulted in the death of security personnel and interruption of power supply electric in some areas.
Conclusion :
The collaboration between Borno State and the Ministry of Power is a promising opportunity to improve access to electricity in the region. Governor Zulum’s commitment to investing in power infrastructure shows the importance of states’ involvement in providing essential services to their communities. This collaboration also paves the way for new partnership opportunities between states and the federal government to meet growing electricity needs across the country. The ultimate objective is to ensure regular access to electricity for businesses and households, thereby promoting the socio-economic development of Borno State.