The Niger State Government has domesticated the Electricity Act in line with regulations of the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), a move aimed at breaking the monopoly of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) in the state’s electricity supply sector.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago disclosed this at the weekend while briefing journalists on the state’s power and water supply situation.
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According to the governor, the domestication of the law has enabled his administration to initiate a joint venture with private partners to establish a new electricity distribution company that will compete directly with AEDC.
He said the state has also rolled out alternative power sources, particularly renewable energy and solar mini-grids, noting that significant progress has already been recorded.
“As at today, Government House, Minna; the General Hospital; IBB Specialist Hospital; the Water Board and other public buildings have transitioned from the AEDC national grid and are now enjoying 24-hour power supply from solar energy systems,” Bago said.
The governor further revealed that more than 180 communities across Niger State that had been without electricity for over a decade have now been removed from the national grid and connected to solar mini-grids, providing round-the-clock electricity.
“For instance, Lambata town in Gurara Local Government Area is now connected to a solar mini-grid for constant power supply,” he added.
Bago explained that deploying solar systems and mini-grids has also helped the government cut costs associated with conventional power connections, such as the procurement of poles, wires and other infrastructure required by AEDC.
He said the government plans to completely remove its ministries, departments and agencies from the national grid in the near future, while urging residents of the state to embrace renewable energy solutions, which he described as efficient and cost-effective.
