27 August 2013, Abuja – 
Minister of Information, Mr. Labaran Maku, has said all the 11 power plants being constructed by the Federal Government will be completed before the end of the first quarter of 2014.
Maku stated this on Monday while fielding questions from journalists after the Peoples Democratic Party stakeholders’ meeting in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
He said seven out of the power plants had so far been completed, while efforts were being intensified to complete others before the end of the first quarter of 2014.
The minister said the Federal Government had completed 150 out of the 220 injection sub-stations being constructed to stabilise and hold the power to be generated.
Maku further explained that the privatisation of the sector would enhance efficiency in power delivery as was witnessed in the telecoms sector.
The minister noted that the Federal Government deserved commendation for completing the plants in two years, adding that electricity generation would double in the next few years.
“It is almost magical for the President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration to have achieved this feat in just two years; this is a clear indication of his commitment to deliver on power,” he said.
Meanwhile, the President has given an assurance to Nigerians that they will soon begin to enjoy the benefits of the privatisation of the power sector with the successful conclusion of the sale of the generation and distribution companies.
A statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, quoted the President as saying this while granting audience to a delegation of the Anioma Peoples’ Congress led by the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Chike Edozien, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Monday.
Jonathan confirmed that all the successful bidders for the power generation and distribution companies except one had completed the payments required to complete the process, which he said was conducted in conformity with globally acceptable standards and best practices.
He said, “We are fully conscious of the centrality and importance of adequate power supply for our developmental efforts. We have challenges in the sector but we are constantly working to overcome them.
“We are currently in a transition phase in which the sector is being positively transformed. The sale of our generation and distribution companies is almost concluded. Finally, everyone has paid and in the shortest possible time, our power sector will take on a much more positive life of its own for the benefit of all Nigerians.”
Jonathan said his administration remained fully committed to significantly improving national infrastructure and would continue to work on rapidly developing railway links, airports, seaports, roads and other transportation services in the country.
– The Punch
