Power sector reform ‘ill redefine electricity in Nigeria- Fashola

Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola has said that the new Power Sector Reform Programme already before the Federal Government will soon add greater value to the electricity sector in the country.

Fashola, said that the reform, already submitted to the Federal Executive Council, FEC, also seeks the World Bank’s support to enhance the roadmap to functional electricity sector in the country.

The former Lagos State Governor, while speaking on a Channels Television programme on Wednesday, also said the contentious electricity tariff was being addressed.

He said, “Before we can review tariff, we should increase electricity supply; take consumer audit; look at the unit cost of electricity too.”

He said as part of his ongoing assessment tour of electricity infrastructure in the country with a view to acquainting himself with happenings in the sector, he has visited critical power installations in Delta, Kogi, and interfaced with stakeholders, pointing out that he was now in a good stead to understand the challenges faced by consumers , generating and distribution companies, who are some of the stakeholders in the sector, with a view to addressing them.

“I think, my team and I have come to realize that we need to pursue metering system, initiate consumer education,” he said.

On renewable(solar) energy, Fashola said that his ministry has delivered energy mix for Nigeria, adding: “we have identified some prolific areas for solar energy as North Central part of the country; gas in Niger Delta region; hydro power in the North- Taraba, Geregu(Kogi), Shiroro (Niger); coal in Middle Belt region including Kogi; and in South East area of Enugu State.”

The minister also said that he has issued regulations on mini-grid of less than 1MW of electricity in rural communities to enhance rural electrification programme of President Muhammadu Buhari, adding that generally, the ‘footprint’ on solar energy was increasing.

Ganiyu Obaaro