Niger State Residents Soon To Smile As AEDC, Government Plans “Light Up Niger” Project

The Niger state residents will soon smile over improved electricity supply as Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) and the State Government plans “Light Up Niger” project initiative.

A statement explained that the initiative code name “Light Up Niger 2024” would be a collaboration between the State government and the AEDC to ensure a steady power supply to Nigerlites.

The Governor, Mohammed Umaru  Bago spoke while receiving AEDC delegation led by its Chief Operations Officer, Eng. Chijioke Okwuokenye at the Government House, Minna.

Governor Umaru Bago described the initiative as a welcome development because Niger State is host to four hydro dams and the dams contribute about 60% electricity in Nigeria.

He also observed that power supply is key to development especially as the State is moving into an industrialization and processing zone.

The Governor expressed optimism that the “Light Up Niger” project will also proffer solution to the metering challenge in the State.

Governor Umaru Bago disclosed that the Electricity Act has been domesticated in the State and the Niger State Electricity Regulatory Commission has been created.

He further stated that the necessary paperwork for the Regulatory Commission will soon be completed so that the State can start generating and distributing its own power.

The Chief Operating Officer of AEDC, Eng. Chijioke Okwuokenye explained that the “Light Up Niger” project would pave way for greater things to come as the whole scope is to come up with the best measures that will improve and sustain electricity supply to Niger State.

He commended the support of the Bago-led administration through the supply of transformers to communities, saying that the private sector needs such support for survival. He assured that the Company is willing to continue to partner with the State Government for the desired result.

Recently the State Government described as unacceptable the continuous erratic and epileptic power supply in the State. The situation improved immediately and has led to the “Light Up Niger” initiative.