From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, visited one of the top meter manufacturers in the country, Engineer Ademola Agoro, at his meter manufacturing factory in Ibadan.
Agoro, who is the Chairman/MD of Protogy Global Services, showcased the factory’s production capacity of 1.2 million units of meters per year. He expressed confidence in the company’s ability to double its current production capacity with support from the government.
During the visit, Agoro highlighted that all meters produced by Protogy Global Services are smart meters that can be controlled remotely by consumers. He expressed his delight at the Minister’s visit, which he believed would lead to increased collaboration and cooperation for the company. Agoro hoped for patronage from the federal government and emphasized his desire for local meter manufacturers to be supported.
Agoro also discussed the challenges faced by local meter manufacturers, particularly concerning foreign exchange rates and the high cost of diesel for production. He mentioned the company’s capacity to meet the government’s demand for meters, producing both single and three-phase meters.
Minister Adelabu thanked Agoro for hosting the visit and stated that it was a working and inspection visit to assess the facilities and meter assembly process. He emphasized the government’s support for local meter manufacturers and the importance of consuming locally produced goods. Adelabu expressed satisfaction with the quality and standard of the factory’s facilities and pledged the government’s support through a conducive environment, access to foreign exchange, and low-interest loans.
Adelabu acknowledged the significant role played by local meter manufacturers in the power sector and stressed the importance of regular patronage by the government and distribution companies. He stated that supporting local manufacturers would result in lower costs, improved quality, and increased power distribution and consumption.