OpeOluwani Akintayo
13 November 017, Sweetcrude, Lagos – The Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola has attributed the progress achieved in the power sector to ceasefire by militants in the Niger Delta.
In a remarks by the minister at the 21st monthly power sector operators meeting held in Asaba on Monday, said electricity Generation Companies, Gencos, have had access to gas due to the peace in the region.
“Dear members, we all know that the progress this year was due to many things we have done and the peace in the Gas producing regions which enabled us to get the gas stations and the Hydro stations to work together,” he said.
Speaking further, he admonished all arms of the sector to further strengthen cooperation especially now that the rainy season is coming to an end.
“Now that the rains are coming to an end, we expect some minor, not major reduction in the production from the Hydro, and we must work now to keep all the gas stations well maintained and operational”.
“I am sure that we can do this, if there is peace in the gas producing areas and gas supply is not interrupted,” he added.
Mentioning some of the progress in the sector, the minister referred to the New Asaba Mains 2x15MVA injection substation completed and commissioned today by Benin electricity Distribution Company, Benin DisCo.
Fashola said the substation is expected to improve service to Okwe, Akuebulu, Jarret, Ogbeofu, Osadebe Way, Okwe Housing Estate, Oduke, New Jerusalem, Malbovil and more by reducing load shedding and increasing the hours of supply.
“Minute by minute, hour by hour, day by day, week by week and month by month we have not only gained momentum, we are seeing progress that inspires us not to flag, progress that inspires us to continue, because the power problem can be successfully managed by Nigerians”.
“Not even your worst critic can deny that his experience has improved; even if he is reluctant to acknowledge it, which is his prerogative”.
“There are other challenges that we must also overcome together”, he added.