RADIO NIGER PARTNERS WITH AEDC TO ENHANCE POWER SUPPLY TO THE STATION
By Bala Yahaya, Minna.
The General Manager of the Broadcasting Corporation of Niger State, Radio Niger, Mohammed Kolo, has called for a dedicated energy supply to the transmission station at Maitumbi and the office complex on Shiroro Road, Minna.
Kolo made this passionate appeal during a recent courtesy visit to the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) Niger Regional Office in Minna, where he was accompanied by top management from the station.
He expressed concern over the issues of erratic power supply that have been affecting the station’s operations, noting that these challenges are not unique to Radio Niger but impact all media organizations that rely on a stable power supply.
Kolo emphasized his commitment to repositioning the radio station to effectively serve the entire state by providing information, education, entertainment, and setting agendas for the public.
He highlighted the importance of the station succeeding, especially under the leadership of a governor determined to improve the state’s functionality. He stated, “We did not come to the AEDC office to criticize; we came to acknowledge what you are doing well and to express our desire for even better service.”
He continued, “We have maintained a good partnership with AEDC and have efficiently collaborated on various projects. Whenever we have issues related to power supply, we address them, and AEDC has been responsive.” Kolo pleaded with AEDC to show support for Radio Niger, requesting special consideration for a consistent power supply to ensure seamless transmission.
The General Manager noted that since taking office, Governor Umaru Bago has initiated numerous infrastructure projects across the state, which many residents in rural areas may not be aware of. With the help of radio, the public will be better informed about government programs and policies.
Earlier, the Chief Business Officer of AEDC in the Niger Region, Engineer Dr. Sammuel Odekina, revealed that the company aims to provide Radio Niger with 12 to 16 hours of power supply daily. He cautioned that any shortfall might be due to network disturbances.
Odekina granted the station 10 hours of power supply to enhance the dissemination of information to the people of Niger State.
He described Governor Muhammad Umaru Bago as a friend of the power sector and mentioned that the governor has made significant investments in infrastructure to benefit the community, promising him previously that the state would receive 12 hours of power supply every day.
While appreciating the visit from Kolo and his team, Engineer Emmanuel emphasized that AEDC cannot deprive its customers of energy. He pointed out that energy cannot be conserved, and any released power must be utilized effectively.