Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu has announced that the Federal Government is actively exploring alternative power sources to serve as backups, aiming to prevent future collapses of the National Grid. He made this statement during a stakeholders meeting with the management of the Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) at its headquarters in Kano.
Adelabu emphasized the government’s commitment to boosting electricity supply as a critical component in reviving Nigeria’s industrial revolution and enhancing the national economy. “We are determined to ensure that electricity supply is stable and reliable for all sectors,” he stated, highlighting the urgency of the initiative.
During the meeting, the Minister underscored the necessity of engaging with key stakeholders to identify and address the challenges that hinder optimal performance in the electricity sector. “My mission is to engage with critical stakeholders to identify and tackle obstacles hindering optimal performance,” he said, reflecting his proactive approach to improving the energy landscape.
A significant point raised by Adelabu was the current reliance on specific transmission channels, particularly those in Shiroro and Jos. He noted the need for a revamp of the transmission architecture to ensure a more resilient power supply. “We must diversify our power sources to mitigate risks associated with these channels,” he remarked.
To this end, the Minister proposed establishing independent power sources within state metropolises. He explained that these local power generation units could support the national grid and provide reliable electricity during disruptions. “Exploring alternative power sources to serve as backups has become necessary to curtail future occurrences of National Grid collapse,” he stated.
Adelabu also highlighted the importance of preparedness for various challenges, including vandalism and system failures. “This proactive approach aims to ensure that the region is prepared for any eventuality, including vandalism or national grid collapse,” he affirmed, stressing the need for a comprehensive strategy.
Moreover, he called on state governments to take an active role in implementing alternative electricity sources. “State Governments should ensure effective implementation of providing alternative electricity sources,” he urged, reinforcing the collaborative effort required across different levels of government.
The Minister also placed responsibility on Distribution Companies (Discos) to deliver reliable services, stating, “Discos should ensure reliable distribution services while consumers should utilize electricity efficiently.” This triad of responsibility—government, distributors, and consumers—was underscored as essential for achieving a sustainable power supply.
