How FG spent over N3trn direct intervention to save power sector from collapsing

From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja

Following the sorry situation of the power industry in Nigeria, the federal government has so far spent over N3 trillion in direct intervention since the sector was privatised.

This revelation was made manifest by the Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) Market Participants and Stakeholders Roundtable (NMPSR), yesterday, in Abuja.

Disturbed by the amount of interventions and the incommensurate performance of the sector, the stakeholders, under the auspices of NMPSR have proposed a conference between October 30, 2023 and November 1, 2023, to address the myriads of problems bedevilling the power sector.

So, addressing newsmen in Abuja, the Chairman, Organising Committee of the conference, Professor Stephen Ogaji said that the three-day event is expected to bring together key market participants, stakeholders, government representatives, regulators, investors, and experts to diligently examine challenges, and proffer solutions on the various aspects of the value chain including gas, generation, transmission, distribution, metering, finance/liquidity, renewables, as well as explore potential ramifications of the new Electricity Act, 2023.

“It is an occasion to acknowledge the milestones that have been achieved while addressing the work that lies ahead to further strengthen the sector.

“This conference will be a platform for open dialogue, where ideas will flow, experiences will be shared, and partnerships will be forged. Together, we will explore strategies to overcome remaining challenges, enhance efficiency, and ensure that we remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering quality electricity supply services to Nigerians.

“As we recognise the milestone of a decade of privatisation of NESI, we must also acknowledge the role of the Nigerian people. Their resilience and understanding during this period has been invaluable, and it is their support that has driven us to focus on our responsibilities” he said.

According to him, the inaugural roundtable event, titled: “NESI Privatisation and its 10-year
Milestone: The Journey So Far, Opportunities And Prospects,” is the first of what we hope to be a bi-annual conference that provides a platform for a robust and comprehensive discussion of the issues and prospects associated with the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

“My hope and expectation, as Chairman, is that NMPSR will serve as a catalyst for positive change in the sector. We envision this conference as the beginning of a new era of cooperation, progress, and growth in the sector. Together, we can shape the future of Nigeria’s power industry and create an environment that empowers economic development, enhances living standards, and unlocks the nation’s true potential,” Ogaji explained.

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