Niger State Governor Flags Off “Bago Electrifying Niger Agenda,” Overhauls 600 Transformers
In an ambitious drive to enhance power supply across Niger State, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, known as the “farmer Governor,” has launched the “Bago Electrifying Niger Agenda” in Minna. This initiative, aimed at overhauling 600 transformers of various capacities, is part of his administration’s commitment to improve the power infrastructure and ensure reliable electricity for residents.
At the flag-off ceremony, Governor Bago announced that 60 transformers have already been overhauled, while an additional 200 transformers procured by his administration are set to be distributed to communities in need. Highlighting Niger State’s unique position as host to four hydroelectric dams, he stressed the importance of not solely relying on the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) for repairs or transformer procurement. His administration has taken on these responsibilities directly, making substantial investments to bolster the state’s power supply.
The governor noted that his administration has also addressed a N1 billion debt to AEDC and established a partnership aimed at delivering consistent power supply across the state. He urged AEDC officials to take measures to protect the newly overhauled transformers and expressed appreciation to Atizan Concept Limited, the company responsible for the transformer overhauls.
According to Alh. Yakubu Mohammed Katamba, Director General of the Niger State Electricity Board, this project aligns with the administration’s “New Niger Agenda,” which seeks to reduce costs by repairing existing transformers instead of buying new ones. Katamba stated that the project is expected to cut transformer costs by approximately 80%, saving the state an estimated N20 billion.
Atizan Concept Limited, the project’s contractor, has also committed to training Niger State youth in transformer repair and maintenance as part of its corporate social responsibility. Project Coordinator Aminu Isah Ahmadu confirmed that high-quality materials were used in the overhauls, and each transformer will come with a ten-year guarantee backed by an Overhauling Testing Certificate.
In addition, Alh. Muhammed Bashir Lokogoma, Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, disclosed that the Niger State Executive Council approved N898 million for the transformer overhaul project. To further improve power infrastructure, a new 10 MVA substation is being constructed in Lapai at a cost of N979 million, which will enhance power delivery in Lapai and surrounding areas.
During the ceremony, AEDC Chief Business Officer for the Niger Zone, Eng. Samuel Odekina, along with former Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria, Engineer Abubakar Atiku Tambuwal, praised Governor Bago’s commitment to advancing power infrastructure and addressing the state’s energy needs. They pledged AEDC’s support in realizing the governor’s vision of powering homes and businesses across Niger State.
This comprehensive approach to electricity supply is expected to drive socio-economic growth in the state, making Niger a model for energy transformation in Nigeria.
Bologi Ibrahim
Chief Press Secretary
Governor of Niger State