Niger State Governor Umaru Bago Calls for Enhanced Service Delivery from AEDC
By Yahaya Zakka Minna
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has highlighted the urgent need for the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) to enhance its service delivery, particularly in Minna. This assertion was made during a roundtable discussion with AEDC officials at the Government House in Minna.
Governor Bago noted that there has been little improvement in power supply since his last meeting with AEDC management the previous week.
He expressed concern over the efficiency and effectiveness of AEDC in terms of power supply, procurement, and installation of necessary infrastructure.
The governor stated that his administration has invested significantly in the power sector, having procured over 1,000 transformers across the state in the last three months to improve the quality of life for residents.
He insisted that AEDC must fulfill its obligation to provide the required infrastructure for electricity supply, including a commitment to reimburse the state either in cash or through improved power services.
Governor Bago recommended that AEDC establish and communicate a power supply schedule to the public through various media outlets, ensuring that residents are informed about service availability in their respective areas.
He also emphasized the importance of having a dedicated yard for transformers and other power infrastructure.
Furthermore, the governor directed the Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Bashir Mohammed Lokogoma, and the Commissioner for Finance, Lawal Adamu Maikano, to closely monitor AEDC’s services to identify potential state government interventions.
He instructed the Commissioner for Power to ensure the provision of armored cable in the Gbeganu area to facilitate better power supply.
In response, Engr. Sam Odekina, Chief Business Officer of AEDC, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to improving power supply.
He explained that the company has maintained power supply hours according to service-based tariffs, addressing localized faults when they arise.
Engr. Odekina also informed the governor that power has been restored to IBB Specialist Hospital and that issues related to low voltage in certain areas have been resolved.
He expressed gratitude for the governor’s support in enhancing power infrastructure, reaffirming AEDC’s dedication to serving the community more effectively.