In an effort to improve electricity supply in Niger State, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago announced an initiative to repair and distribute 600 defective transformers of various capacities. The project, known as the "Bago Electrifying Niger State" initiative, was officially launched on Wednesday, with 60 transformers already repaired.
Governor Bago emphasized the need for Niger State, home to four hydro-electric dams, to reduce reliance on the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) for transformer repairs and procurement. The administration has also purchased 200 additional transformers slated for distribution to communities across the state, which the governor believes will aid in boosting local economies.
Furthermore, the Niger State government recently cleared a debt of over N1 billion owed to the AEDC and established a partnership aimed at ensuring consistent power supply to residents. Governor Bago encouraged both the AEDC and local communities to protect the infrastructure to ensure longevity.
Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed Katamba, Director General of the Niger State Electricity Board, stated that the project aligns with the "New Niger Agenda" and aims to reduce transformer procurement costs by 80%, resulting in an estimated savings of N20 billion.