Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, on Monday, October 28, 2024, said electricity would be restored to the 17 northern states that had suffered blackout due vandalisation of the Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line.
Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu
Adelabu said this while briefing State House correspondents after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja.
He said the disruption of electricity supply to the northern part of the country was due to vandalisation of Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line, the major line that supplied electricity to the north.
He, however, said the transmission line would be repaired within three to five days.
“Mr. President has instructed the National Security Adviser (NSA), the chief of defense staff, the chief of Army staff, Chief of Air Staff, to provide the required security for the people that will fix the demolished line.
“With the provision of full security, the TCN staff will have the confidence, together with the contractors, to go to the field and fix it.
“So, I’m just appealing to our northern brothers and sisters, fathers and mothers, to bear with us that very soon, light will be restored, and we must all collectively protect our national grid to avoid further vandalisation,” said the minister.
He added that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) had earlier given approval for the ministry of power to upgrade the Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line, one of the oldest transmission lines in Nigeria.
He said once the upgrade was done, the north would enjoy more stable electricity than what was being experienced now.
He promised to convene a meeting with the chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and all the Distribution Companies (DISCOs) to ensure that customers in the north were not billed during the period they suffered blackout.
Adelabu explained that the national grid collapsed twice in recent times due to explosion of the transformer at Jeba plant.
He said before the explosion, the last disturbance on the grid was about four months ago.
“Let me tell you the truth of the matter is we have old infrastructure. We have a national grid that is more than 50 years old.
“We have national grid whose transmission lines are weak, the towers are falling, and the substations, the transformers are old.
“In fact, the transformer that actually exploded in Jeba was 47 years old. We’ve been trying to revamp this, to change them, but they cannot all be changed overnight,” he said.
He said the ministry would continue to manage the grid to prevent frequent disturbances, until it was completely overhauled.
Experts and electricity consumers have attributed the incessant collapse of the national grid to ageing infrastructure, poor maintenance culture, corruption, acts of vandalism and possibly sabotage.
A power grid
The respondents, in a survey conducted Osun, Ondo and Ekiti states, said that the collapse of the national grid a total of 105 times within 10 years and three times in October 2024 was horrifying.
They implored the federal government to privatise power generation and transmission as well as allow states’ involvement in the power sector.
Mr. Sadiq Adewale, a former Southwest Vice -President of the National Union of Electricity Employee (NUEE), attributed the incessant collapse of the national grid to either acts of vandalism by hoodlum or deliberate sabotage.
Adewale explained that when there was more demand to what was supplied or vice -versa, such could also result to grid collapsed, if not properly checked or handled.
He said that necessary mechanisms have been put in place by the authorities to ascertain the reason(s) for the incessant grid collapse.
“We are monitoring the situation to ascertain the cause of the persistent national grid collapse whether it is an act of sabotage or not.
Adewale also said that all hands were on desk to prevent the recurring incidence of the collapse.
Also, Mrs. Kikelomo Owoeye, the Senior Communication Officer of Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), Osun Region, said that only the National Control Center (NCC) could adduce reasons for the collapse of the national grid.
Owoeye said that the electricity distribution companies do not have control over the national grid, but only distribute what was transmitted to them.
She expressed optimism that all hands were on deck to ensure that the situation was addressed for effective operations and service delivery.
However, Dr Enoruwa Obayiuwana, a lecturer at Department of Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, urged the federal government to hand over power generation to private organisations to stop the persistent collapse of the national grid.
Obayiuwana, who noted that most of the power generating equipment were very old and ageing, said that what the equipment needed was preventive maintenance and not maintenance after grid failure.
According to him, there is a problem of poor investment in power generation and federal government has not really invested in building new power stations over the years.
“Nigeria’s population is growing with more commercial activities, whereas there is low investment in power generation for sufficient power to match demands.
“And when there is disruption or imbalance in power generated and power demanded, there is going to be heavy burden on the transmissions and heavy collapse.
“There is going to be grid instability which can lead to frequent voltage imbalance through power demand mismanagement or when having faulty equipment.
“Sabotage through cutting of electrical and high-tension cables, stealing transformer equipment or devices is another possible reason”, he said.
Obayiuwana, however, called for independent power generation by state government to reduce the pressure on the federal government.
Meanwhile, Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun says the state is working towards generating its own electricity and will also distribute it to neighbouring states when achieved.
Adeleke said this recently in Ilesa, at the inauguration of the construction of the Obokun 33KV feeder line, a project expected to enhance electricity supply in the state.
The governor said that the state had a robust plan to transform its energy and electricity market through appropriate policy and legislation.
Adeleke said that the state had a draft electricity bill and policy which would expand power generation and distribution.
“As a government committed to the welfare of the people, it is our focus to bring economic light to the people of the state.
“The policy and the bill when finally passed and signed into law will change the face of Osun electricity space.
“Being so blessed with many rivers and solar assets, we will generate our electricity.
“We will issue licences to those capable of generating electricity and we will regulate our power distributor, the Ibadan disco.
“We are acting fast in the energy space because power supply is an engine room of economic growth,” he said.
Electricity consumers and business owners in the state, however, said that the persistent collapse was having negative impact on their businesses and daily living.
Mrs Kehinde Ayinde, a frozen food seller, said that she relied heavily on electricity for her business.
She said that whenever there was power outage for more than 12 hours, her frozen business always suffers for it.
“The last power outage as a result of national grid collapse cost me over N250,000.
“This is because all my frozen food got spoilt and I am yet to recover from it,” Ayinde said
She appealed to government to do everything possible to put a stop to the incessant collapse of the national grid.
Similarly, business owners and electricity consumers in Ekiti have deplored the incessant collapse of the national grid.
Respondents implored the Federal Government to find lasting solutions to the problem.
Also, Mrs. Lola Ojo said that the federal and state governments should not only invest in upgrading existing facilities for power generation, but also invest in renewable energy sources.
Mrs. Olufolake Dada, said it appeared some saboteurs were at work, trying to destroy every genuine intention of government, saying action should be taken against anyone, found wanting.
An electrical and electronic technician, Mr. Oluwaseun Olubunmi, urged the Federal government to diversify to solar energy to improve electricity supply in Nigeria.
Olubunmi, an electrical consultant, said problems of overload, outdated infrastructure and vandalism often caused grid instability, and blackout.
The electrical expert explained that components of a power grid can trip anytime and shut off when a load is high.
Olubunmi noted that if alternative power generating sources are not developed by the federal government, Nigerians would continue to experience poor electricity supply.
He listed problems associated with grid collapse, to inadequacy of gas supply, improper coordination of plants and gas pipelines and poor generation capacity.
Meanwhile, the Ekiti State Government says it has incorporated a power company, named “Ile Iyi Electric Power Company Nigeria Limited”, with the Corporate Affairs Commission, to effectively provide and handle services relating to electricity and energy in the state.
The Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utility, Prof. Bolaji Aluko, said the newly registered company would operate as an independent private body, devoid of bureaucratic bottlenecks, and other challenges, usually associated with the old order.
He said that the company, would among others, render services for provision of electricity to the public and private sectors as well as render such other services commercially to individuals, and possibly, governments of other states.
According to him, the state government in a bid to ensure stable electricity supply in parts of Ekiti, inaugurated a 5MW Independent Power Project, (IPP).
“The IPP is at present providing uninterrupted power supply to government offices and some other key government installations in the state capital,” Aluko said.
He said that the independent power station, represents a significant step toward addressing electricity supply challenges in the state.
He confirmed that the project had undergone a successful two-week test period, during which 700kw of power was distributed out of the total 3.5 megawatts capacity.
A resident, Mr. Abimbola Oladeji advised the Federal Government to partner with the states to evolve effective strategies that would involve engaging local stakeholders in addressing issues like outdated infrastructure and lack of maintenance of energy assets.
Also, the Ondo State Government says it has officially taken over the energy sector after meeting all conditions set by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
The Special Adviser to Ondo State Governor on Energy, Engr. (Dr.) Johnson Alabi, stated this in an interview in Akure, while revealing efforts of the state government to be energy sufficient.
He said the state government plans to venture into power generation, transmission and distribution.
Alabi said the transfer of electricity oversight from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to the State Electricity Regulatory Bureau (SERB) was a milestone to state’s power sector.
“This transfer will allow the state to manage its electricity sector more effectively, tailoring policies to the specific needs of its people,” he said.
The Bayelsa State Government has confirmed it received N3 billion flood prevention fund disbursed in August by the Federal Government to flood prone states.
Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State
Mr. Timiore Seipolou, Technical Adviser to Bayelsa Governor on Treasury and Accounts, disclosed this on Monday, October 28, 2024, in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, while giving a breakdown of revenue profile of the state for August and September.
Bayelsa is listed among the 21 states at risk of flooding by the National Emergency Management Agency’s 2024 Flood Alert.
Highlights of the revenue figures showed that in August, Bayelsa earned more from exchange rate differential– the gains accruing due to sliding value or the naira in dollar denominated oil proceeds–than actual proceeds from oil.
While Bayelsa’s oil derivation revenue was N 8.69 billion, 31 per cent; the state got N22.99 billion from exchange rate gains representing 46 per cent of the state’s revenue for August.
According to Seipolou, statutory revenue from the Federation Accounts for the month under review stands at N 792.89 million
He said the proceeds from Value Added Tax (VAT) 26 per cent of the revenue streams stood at N5.72 billion.
The technical adviser said that Bayelsa earned N2.46 billion from internal sources, while the gross revenue from the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) for August was N 28.36 billion.
The figures indicate that the state spent a total of N6.56 billion for debt service obligations to commercial banks.
He explained that cumulative revenue including proceeds from signature bonuses, revenue from sundry income from oil production came to N90.89 billion for the month under review.
For the month of September, Seipolou noted that statutory revenue for Bayelsa was N847.67 million.
The state also raked in N10.75 billion, 36 per cent of revenue from exchange rate gains, while oil derivation revenue of N9.08 billion representing 30 per cent of total revenue that came to the coffers of the state.
He said that proceeds from VAT were N5.58 billion, 19 per cent of total revenue, while Internally Generated Revenue for September stood at N2.58 billion.
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has reaffirmed its commitment in ensuring a safe and compliant Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) sector.
The opening/keynote session chaired by the Chairman, Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), Mrs Winifred Akpani (middle); Chairman, Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), Mr Huub Stokman (right); and CEO, National Petroleum Authority, Ghana, Dr Mustapha Abdul-Hamid (left)
Mr. Ahmed Farouk, the Authority Chief Executive of NMDPRA disclosed this on Monday, October 28, 2024, during his keynote address at the ongoing Oil Trading & Logistics (OTL) 18th Africa Downstream Energy Week in Lagos.
The theme of the 2024 conference is “Alliances for Growth”.
Farouk said that the NMDPRA’s collaboration with industry stakeholders was to establish a robust regulatory framework for CNG.
“The CNG is still in its infancy in Nigeria. NMDPRA aims to streamline regulations and improve safety measures to promote market maturity and industrial growth.
“Our commitment to supporting the government’s objectives under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) remains unwavering.
“We are focused on delivering on our mandates while fostering collaborations to achieve shared aspirations within the industry,” he said.
Farouk said that the authority plans to revise and consolidate existing regulations through strategic engagements with stakeholders.
According to him, the initiative seeks to simplify compliance processes and ensure that safety standards are upheld throughout the CNG sector.
“In line with its efforts, the NMDPRA aims to promote CNG as a viable alternative fuel for vehicles, aligning with ongoing initiatives such as the Decade of Gas Program and the Pi-CNG programme,” Farouk added.
The NMDPRA boss noted that expanding CNG infrastructure remained crucial for enhancing energy security and supporting Nigeria’s transition to cleaner energy solutions.
He reaffirmed NMDPRA’s dedication to establishing strong partnerships within the industry and with regulatory bodies across West Africa.
Farouk highlighted the agency’s goal of creating a uniform gas transportation code to facilitate the movement of natural gas and enhance regional collaboration.
“The OTL conference serves as a vital platform for discussing strategies that lead to sustainable energy practices.
“The insights and outcomes from this summit will contribute significantly to the overall development of the industry,” he noted.
Also addressing the conference, Mr. Huub Stokman, Chairman of the Major Energy Markets Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), underscored the importance of cost efficiency in a fully deregulated downstream oil market.
He stressed the need for partnerships with organisations like the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) to address logistical challenges, such as road accidents involving tankers.
Stokman emphasised that alliances within the industry should focus on economic strategies for investment, knowledge development for human capital, and strategic partnerships.
“As Nigeria continues to prioritise energy security and sustainability, the NMDPRA’s initiatives signify a substantial step toward achieving a mature and compliant CNG market, positioning the country to meet both national and global energy goals.
Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, says the Federal Government of Nigeria will soon establish super electricity grid as backup to the national grid that is experiencing incessant collapse.
Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu
Adelabu said this while briefing State House correspondents after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu on Monday, October 28, 2024, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
According to him, if the national grid has a problem, the super grid will be an alternative route through which power will be transmitted.
He added that regional grids would be established to decentralise the national grid.
“The world has moved beyond having a centralised grid. Grid must be regionalised.
“We must have state grids, so that each of the regionalised grid will be insulated from each other.
“A problem in a particular line will not affect the others. Until that is done, we believe that we’ll keep managing what we have and reduce the frequent occurrence of the grid disturbance,” said Adelabu.
Adelabu explained that the national grid collapsed twice in recent times due to explosion of the transformer at Jeba plant.
He said before the explosion, the last disturbance on the grid, was about four months ago.
“Let me tell you the truth of the matter is we have old infrastructure. We have a national grid that is more than 50 years old.
“We have national grid whose transmission lines are weak, the towers are falling, and the substations, the transformers are old.
“In fact, the transformer that actually exploded in Jeba was 47 years old. We’ve been trying to revamp this, to change them, but they cannot all be changed overnight,” he said.
He said the ministry would continue to manage the grid to prevent frequent disturbances, until it was completely overhauled.
Adelabu also disclosed that the Federal Government was planning to introduce the distributed solar power model in northern states.
“We believe that the most effective way of supplying uninterrupted, electricity to the northern part of Nigeria is through distributed power model, whereby each of the northern states will have an embedded utility, solar source.
“All the states will be insulated and immune from each other, and we have actually made progress on this.
“We have interested contractors and financiers that are ready to install a 100 megawatt for each of the 20 northern states, which is scalable to 50 megawatts at first, then upgraded 100 megawatts.
“When we have this, the power supply to the North will be reliable because of the advantage of the sun that they have, where solar will be highly effective,” said Adelabu.
He said with this scheme, the pressure on the national grid from the northern part of Nigeria would be lower, and Nigerians would be able to enjoy better electricity supply.
“When we talk about a final volume of 100 megawatts for each of the northern states, this includes targeting not just households, we are looking at offices.
“We’re looking at institutions, both health and educational institutions, and we’re looking at industrial clusters that are the major consumers of power.
“We will start from having 50 megawatts for each of the states, which we believe will go around whatever activities that happen in all of the northern states on a state-by-state basis,” he said.
The British American Tobacco Nigeria (BATN) Foundation has launched a women empowerment initiative, distributing five-week-old broiler birds to 200 women in Zamfara State.
BATN Foundation empowering women in Zamfara with poultry resources
The project aims to foster sustainable agricultural practices by enhancing rural livelihoods and alleviate poverty within the community.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including the First Lady of Zamfara State, Hurriya Dauda Lawal; Commissioner of Agriculture, Ya’u Haruna Gamji; the Permanent Secretary of Agriculture; Oludare Odusanya, the General Manager of BATN Foundation; and other officials.
BATNF’s efforts reflect its commitment to empowering rural women and fostering community resilience through sustainable agriculture. Each beneficiary received 20 broiler birds, a bag of specially formulated feed, and essential multivitamins to support poultry farming.
The project, implemented by Eco-lead Imperial Engineering and Global Resources Limited, goes beyond distribution but also equipping women with tools to establish profitable businesses.
In her address, Lawal praised the initiative, highlighting the importance of empowering women to drive change.
She said: “The women of Zamfara are the heart of our communities and empowering them means empowering the future of our state. With this support, we are not just giving them birds and feed; we are giving them the tools to rebuild and strengthen their livelihoods despite the challenges we face. I thank BATNF for recognizing the potential of our women and investing in their growth.”
Similarly, Gamji emphasised the significance of the project for the state’s agricultural development.
He said: “This initiative is a vital step towards sustainable food security and economic empowerment in Zamfara. By investing in women, we are creating a ripple effect that will touch families, communities, and ultimately transform our state. We appreciate the impactful work of the BATN Foundation and look forward to continued collaboration to scale up and transform the lives in our communities.”
Zamfara State Government, through the office of the First Lady, reaffirms its commitment to empowering women and promoting agricultural development, building on the success of the project from BATNF which has empowered women farmers in the community and across the nation.
Speaking at the event, Odusanya emphasised the transformative potential of the initiative.
He said: “It is an honour to be here today to implement a project designed to empower women and enhance rural livelihoods in our beloved state. We firmly believe that, by investing in resilient and enterprising women, we are planting the seeds for a brighter and more prosperous future for all in Zamfara State.
“Poultry farming has emerged as a transformative enterprise, providing not only a sustainable income but also advancing food security and strengthening community cohesion. Our goal is to equip these women with the tools and knowledge to establish successful businesses that will benefit the broader community.”
Odusanya reaffirmed BATNF’s commitment to the sustainability of the project by promising continuous support, including training and awareness programs, to ensure the long-term success of the beneficiaries.
“At BATN Foundation, we believe that empowering farmers- women is crucial to building resilient communities. Since its inception in 2002, BATN Foundation has invested over 4 billion Naira in agricultural programs, supporting smallholder farmers across Nigeria. To date, the foundation has reached 1.3 million beneficiaries, with a target to double that number in the next decade by scaling up support for rural farmers across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Looking ahead, the foundation is committed to doubling its impact over the next decade by scaling up its support for rural farmers across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
“This ambitious goal involves expanding outreach programs, increasing funding, and establishing strategic partnerships with public and private stakeholders to enhance the delivery and sustainability of agricultural interventions. BATNF will also place particular emphasis on empowering women and youth, recognising these groups as key drivers of long-term agricultural growth and rural economic development. The Foundation calls for collaboration with likeminded organisations to expand its reach and make a lasting difference,” he stressed.
The Lagos State Government is planning a dialogue with developers and property owners to discuss ways to address distressed buildings in the state.
Lagos State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide
Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr Oluyinka Olumide, said this in a statement on Sunday, October 27, 2024, in Lagos.
The statement was issued by Mr. Mukaila Sanusi, the Deputy Director, Public Affairs Unit of the ministry.
Olumide said the meeting slated for November would discuss solutions to the problem of distressed buildings.
He added that the proposed strategic dialogue meeting would be a game changer in the sector by offering technical support, providing viable alternatives to demolition, and combating the menace of distressed buildings in the state.
Olumide said the government was worried about the increasing number of distressed buildings in Lagos.
He said the ministry would offer technical support to developers and owners of distressed buildings.
He said the ministry would help with the design and remodeling of distressed buildings.
“The Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development as mandated by the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law, 2019, as amended, was willing to extend its responsibility for approving remodeling of existing buildings to providing technical assistance to developers and owners of distressed buildings, especially on design and remodeling of such buildings.
“Buildings have their lifespans and should be continuously maintained as the lifespans approach rather than being left to degenerate to the level of distress and eventual collapse, which are inimical to a safe and sustainable environment,” he said.
Saudi Arabia, through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), has hosted a donors’ conference, raising over $1.1 billion for displaced persons and refugees in the Sahel and Lake Chad regions.
Scientists say the Lake Chad, that borders Nigeria and some other countries, has shrunken by 95 percent over the past 50 years. They have also linked the Boko Haram insurgency to the lake’s situation. Photo credit: AP/Christophe Ena
This substantial funding commitment was made possible by the contributions of more than 10 donor countries, agencies, and organisations dedicated to addressing the growing humanitarian needs in these crisis-hit areas.
The conference was held in Jeddah in collaboration with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
The conference, which had the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) as partner, was to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to people in Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Burkina Faso and Mali faced with various crisis and natural disasters.
Addressing the conference, Dr Abdullah Al Rabeeah, the Advisor at the Royal Court and Supervisor General of KSrelief, expressed appreciation for the generosity shown by donors.
According to him, the contributions not only demonstrate solidarity but also empowers humanitarian organisations to deliver life-saving support.
He further said the contributions would ensure greater security and resilience for affected populations.
Al Rabeeah affirmed Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment, through KSrelief, to expanding aid efforts in partnership with international stakeholders and ensuring that those in urgent need get help.
OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha, on his part, stated that the conference was a testament to international unity.
He said the forum provided a platform for dialogue among humanitarian leaders and a foundation for coordinated and sustainable support for those affected by displacement.
“The presence of so many committed nations and organisations here today demonstrates a shared commitment to the values of solidarity and cooperation,” he said.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also lauded Saudi Arabia and the OIC for leading the event.
He acknowledged the region’s potential, and the severe challenges being faced due to ongoing conflicts, climate disruptions and economic strain.
With over 30 million people in the Sahel and Lake Chad regions requiring immediate assistance, Guterres called for sustained humanitarian support and investment in long-term solutions.
He also called for an end to hostilities while urging protection of civilians and unhindered access for aid efforts.
Saudi Arabia further strengthened its commitment to the region by pledging an additional $30 million, bringing its total contributions for 2024 to $51 million.
The Federal Government has called for urgent and aggressive measures to combat the catastrophic impact of climate change in the country.
Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Lawal
Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Lawal, made the call at the just concluded Commonwealth Heads of Government Summit (CHOGM) held in Apia, the capital of the Independent State of Samoa.
This is contained in a statement issued by Mr. Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of The Vice President, on Sunday, October 28, 2024, in Abuja.
The minister led the Nigerian delegation to the meeting, after technical flight issues prevented Vice-President Kashim Shettima from representing President Bola Tinubu at the summit.
Lawal, who spoke during the summit held between Oct. 21 and 26, emphasised that the impact of climate change was a global crisis that demanded immediate action.
The minister also restated the Nigerian government’s support for the preservation of democracy, protection of civil rights across the Commonwealth.
He also reiterated the federal government’s support for the ongoing reforms in the organisation, which is focusing more on results-oriented value creation.
Lawal told the world leaders that Nigeria had already experienced its unpalatable share of the devastating impact of climate change through flooding, degraded lands and rising sea levels.
“We need to address the climate challenge very strongly because of its effect on our society; it is a global phenomenon.
“We have experienced flooding in our country, degraded lands and rising sea levels, among others.
“Now is the time to join forces at the level of the Commonwealth to address these issues,” the Minister stated.
He added that Nigeria’s position on the environment, democracy, security, and other issues was prompted by current challenges being faced across the world.
“Nigeria also made its position clear “in support of democracy and the protection of civil rights across Commonwealth nations, including the processes for strengthening the Commonwealth to make it stronger and more vibrant.”
He emphasised that Nigeria also backed and encouraged ongoing institutional reforms at the Commonwealth.
Lawal reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the organisation’s renewal, emphasising that the nation’s focus was on results-oriented value creation and a responsive Commonwealth.
The minister further pledged Nigeria’s support for the new Secretary-General of the body, Shirley Botchwey, currently Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration.
He expressed the hope that, with Botchwey’s emergence, there would be more robust engagements between Africa and the Commonwealth.
Meanwhile, in a communiqué issued by the Commonwealth Secretariat at the end of the meeting, the leaders commended His Majesty, King Charles III, for his unwavering commitment to a more sustainable and resilient future for Commonwealth countries.
They also applauded the King’s commitment to strengthening education, health and climate resilience, particularly in small island developing states (SIDS), a commitment that has inspired the King’s Commonwealth Fellowship Programme.
Similarly, the leaders reflected on the gathering being the first CHOGM since the loss of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who served as Head of the Commonwealth with extraordinary duty for over 70 years.
The meeting also named Antigua and Barbuda as the host of the next CHOGM in 2026.
The prolonged power outage being experienced in some parts of Nigeria for the past eight days has crippled socio-economic activities in Kaduna, Kano and Katsina states.
A power grid
This is coupled with the recurring failure of the national grid that usually leaves most parts of the country in total darkness.
In Kaduna State, following the ongoing black out, some entrepreneurs have lamented how the lack of power supply affects their businesses.
In a survey, a cross section of the businessmen and women utterly decried that their businesses have gone down due to lack of power.
Augustine Uzor, a bar owner and hotelier said the experience was frustrating as no customer came to lodge or buy drinks from his bar because they were not cold.
“I’ve been running on generator for days now which is making me run at a loss because, sometimes we get the customers and sometimes they don’t come.
“Shortly after I paid a huge amount of money for the light bill, this happened; we are just pushing up in this country to make ends meet but it isn’t encouraging,” he said.
Similarly, a baker, Olowo Oloworanti, said that the event that led to the power outage was tragic, adding that they have been using diesel to produce, which was not sustainable.
He said his business would crumble if electricity was not quickly restored, urging the government to fix the national grid as soon as possible.
According to him, his company has paid for light service but does not get access to it adequately which is disturbing.
He recommended that the government should create alternative power generation and supply which would complement the national grid.
As business owners recount their ordeal, an expert in power and renewable energy, Amina Muhammad, stated that there was a need for the government to harness solar energy for power generation.
She said the country should not be suffering from inefficient power when it’s blessed with solar energy adding that it was high time Nigeria has alternative power generation
In Katsina State, the persistent power being experienced in Katsina, and other Northern states of the federation has also crippled socio-economic activities.
An investigation has revealed that most of the operators of small and medium enterprises have shut down the operations due to power outages.
Some of the businesses affected included, but not limited to welding, tailoring, soft drinks selling, table water production, among others.
The situation has further led to the increase in the cost of services for many businesses.
Audu Muhammad, an expert in welding, said that his business has been stopped due to power outage.
He explained that, hitherto, he used his generator if there was a power outage if he had urgent work.
“We usually charge higher prices for using generators because of the hike in the price of fuel per litre.
“Not everyone can afford to pay higher costs, as such, we are now stranded without work to earn a living,” he said.
On the other hand, operators of mobile phone charging were making a brisk business.
Nura Abubakar, on his part, said that what he gets daily from charging of mobile phones was enough for him to take care of his family.
He said that due to the increase in the price of fuel, they have raised the cost for charging a phone from N100 to N200 and above.
It was observed that the situation has caused almost all businesses to increase their costs.
Checks also revealed that the residents of the state were experiencing acute shortage of water.
A cost of one Jerry can of water, which was sold at N50 before, now cost N150 and above in some parts of the metropolis, and even other local governments in the state.
Meanwhile, the Katsina State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) on concession of the Windmill Power project at Lambar-Rimi, Rimi local government area.
This is said to be part of efforts to reposition the state as a leader in Nigeria’s renewable energy transition.
Gov. Dikko Radda announced a concession plan to restore the wind energy project during a roundtable meeting held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, according to a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula-Mohammed.
He said, “Signing of the MoU by the government establishes a robust framework for collaboration, aimed at accelerating energy access across communities and businesses in the state.”
Kaula-Mohammed quoted Radda as saying that the state’s geographical location offers exceptional renewable energy potential.
The Governor said, “Our state experiences some of the highest solar irradiation levels in Nigeria, and our wind energy project in Rimi exemplifies our commitment to harnessing these natural advantages for our people’s benefit.”
Radda further disclosed that the state was actively seeking qualified partners to take over the Rimi wind energy project, marking a significant step towards optimizing its efficiency and service delivery.
The REA would provide technical advisory support throughout the concession process, ensuring adherence to international best practices and maximizing the project’s impact on local communities.
To facilitate these renewable energy initiatives, he announced an attractive incentive package for developers, including subsidised land allocation, expedited approval processes through a dedicated renewable energy desk, and comprehensive logistical support.
To further create a sustainable ecosystem for energy investment, the state government expressed its commitment towards facilitating power purchase agreements with local businesses.
Radda emphasised that his administration’s strategy extends beyond mere infrastructure development.
“We have conducted a comprehensive mapping of viable clusters across the state, identifying areas where sustainable energy solutions can have the most significant impact on MSME development and community growth,” he said
The governor noted that the collaboration with REA builds upon their successful track record in Katsina State, including the electrification of multiple healthcare facilities under the COVID-19 and other initiatives.
The new partnership promises to expand these efforts, particularly through the Nigeria Electrification and Support Implementation Programme (NESIP)
In Kano State, it was the same obnoxious development as life was no longer bearable to the residents and business owners alike occasioned by the epileptic power supply and the current eight-day black out.
“Things have gone haywire for us and our life is crumbling. Our businesses are dying, and we have lost our means of livelihood.
“The government should do the needful and urgently redress the ugly situation,” a cross section of the residents appealed.
In a related development, the Kano Electricity Distribution Company KEDCO says its core investor, Future Energies Africa, is investing in renewable energy aimed at improving network capacity, and MiniGrid solutions to eliminate absolute reliance on grid supply.
The Chief Commercial Officer of KEDCO Dr Abubakar Jimeta, said this in an interview in Kano.
According to him, their core investor, Future Energies Africa (FEA), is investing in renewable energy efforts, improving network capacity, and MiniGrid solutions to eliminate absolute reliance on grid supply.
Jimeta said that investing in renewable energy would go a long way in reducing the pressure on the national grid.
He said that the unstable power supply was attributed to disturbances on the national grid and vandalism that damaged two towers along the 330kV Shiroro–Kaduna transmission lines 1 and 2, saying, ”these lines are the primary sources of bulk power transmission to our area.”
Jimeta said that reports from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), towers T133 and T136, along with their cables, were found badly damaged at several points. Efforts are ongoing to reclose the lines after tripping.
“To mitigate this challenge, we are engaging with the necessary stakeholders, including TCN and NERC, to find a lasting solution to facilitate swift rectification of the vandalised Shiroro–Kaduna transmission lines for improved electricity supply,” he explained.
Some of the experts explained that the anomaly was exerting negative impacts on the socio-economic, industrial and business growth in the country.
An energy expert, Mr Adams Aliyu, said energy was a key component of development and canvassed that Nigeria gets its energy right.
He said that to stop grid collapses, Nigeria must invest in power generation, distribution and transmission and at the same time invest in renewable energy.
A university lecturer, Ismael Muhammad, advised the Federal Government to decentralise the grid.
“The problem is once there is failure in one part of the grid, the entire country shuts down. So, we need to decentralise the grid so that we have a stand-alone grid, maybe on a regional basis,” he advised.
A national council member of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Sani Hussein, said that many factories could not afford the cost of diesel.
According to him, even those that can are counting losses as they cannot shut down operations because of the incessant black out.
The national council member, who was a former chairman of MAN Kano Jigawa, said maintaining production was a nightmare as 30 percent of operating factories were struggling to meet orders.
Husseini warned that if the situation continues, northern-based industries could lose N500 billion due to the grid disturbances.
The industry chief further said many industries have asked their staff to take temporary leave until power is restored.
He added that if the power issue was not resolved, it could lead to layoffs and serious unemployment.
Mr Mark Ike, one of the residents, said that inconsistent power supply to homes and business areas, especially with the current weather and economic challenges, was too much discomfort.
He added that consistent power outages may cause small businesses to fold up while adding that some businesses that needed constant power might no longer function properly.
Similarly, Ado Shuaibu, a store owner in Singer market, said that it was unfortunate that the situation was happening amid the high cost of fuel.
This, he said, had cost lots of business owners’ losses as some could not afford to switch to their generator sets, while those who could, hiked their prices.
“If I have to buy fuel to power my generator, I may have to increase the price of drinks and people may not buy much because not many can afford it,” he explained.
