Niger State’s “Light Up Niger” Initiative: A Beacon of Progress
Niger State’s “Light Up Niger” Initiative: A Beacon of Progress
Niger State’s “Light Up Niger” Initiative: A Beacon of Progress
By Ayshatu S. Rabo
Niger State, in a groundbreaking partnership with the Abuja Electricity Development Company (AEDC), has launched the “Light Up Niger 2024” project, a visionary initiative set to significantly enhance the electricity supply for its residents. The collaboration was announced during a meeting between Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and the AEDC team, led by COO Eng. Chijioke Okwuokenye, at the Government House in Minna.
Governor Bago hailed the project as a crucial step forward, particularly as Niger State is a key contributor to Nigeria’s electricity, housing four hydro dams that provide about 60% of the nation’s power. “With our state transitioning into an industrial hub, a reliable power supply has become ever more essential. So, I am confident that this initiative would address the longstanding metering issues in the state.”
In a move to bolster the state’s autonomy in power generation and distribution, Governor Bago revealed that the Electricity Act has been adopted locally, and the establishment of the Niger State Electricity Regulatory Commission is underway.
Eng. Okwuokenye, representing AEDC, outlined the transformative potential of “Light Up Niger,” which promises to bring sustainable improvements to the state’s power infrastructure. He acknowledged the state’s support, particularly the provision of transformers, as vital for the private sector’s success and pledged AEDC’s continued partnership with the government.
This initiative emerges in response to the state’s demand for consistent and reliable electricity, challenging the status quo of erratic power supply and setting a new standard for energy provision in Niger State.
Niger State’s “Light Up Niger” Initiative: A Beacon of Progress
