Barth Nnaji: Distribution Infrastructure a Major Concern for Power in Nigeria

Nigeria’s Former Minister of Power, Barth Nnaji, replied to questions asked on the current situation of electricity in Nigeria and possible solutions for it during Monday’s edition of the Morning Show.

Mr. Nnaji explained that the issues with erratic power supply in Nigeria could be traced to the privatization process, adding that the Federal Government failed to optimize the power generation sector before handing it over to the private sector.

According to Prof. Nnaji, in order to transport power to numerous distribution sites, the transmission network must have the necessary power or capacity, but the distribution infrastructure is below average.

“There are currently no transmission systems that can handle a lot of power, and the ones that are available can only handle a maximum of 5000 megawatts. Additionally, it would be highly expensive to create additional transmission systems at this time,” he said.

The government must intervene to address the entire system and supply the requirements needed to upgrade this facilities, he continued.

Mr. Nnaji offered solutions to the issue of electricity, stating what is currently being used in Aba to curb the issues.

He says “We have set up a model, a reliable point of supply for gas and we generate our own electricity. It is embedded in our distribution discourse.

“The power is from end to end and it’s a complete utility on its own.”

Although the proposed solution doesn’t address the issue of power nationwide, Mr. Nnaji says that it does so in some key regions and expresses the hope that it will eventually be applied to all parts of the nation.

The construction of additional power plants, he continues, is being attempted, but a solution to the gas production issue must be found and funded, with power distribution remaining a central investment pillar in the sector.

Faith Ituen

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