FG plans power sector recovery programme to address challenges – BPE
The Federal Government says it is pursuing a comprehensive power sector recovery programme that will address the myriads of challenges in the sector.
Alex Okoh, director-general, Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), made the disclosure at a press briefing organised by the Benin Distribution Company (BEDC) plc in respect of clarification over licensing matters on Wednesday, in Benin City.
Recall that members of Edo State Civil Society Organisations (EDOSCO) protested against the electricity company over the alleged expiration of its operating licence.
The protesters alleged that the BEDC operating licence expired October 31, 2018, and called on the Federal Government not to renew operating licence to the company.
They alleged that the BEDC had over the past five years not performed in line with the terms of the contract agreement.
But Okoh said all distribution companies in the countries face the challenges.
The BPE boss noted that government was working with its international partners to reposition the power sector and Benin Disco in particular had benefited from the services of international institutions, like the USAID.
He said the partnership with the international institutions was aimed at getting the best electricity sources to the people of Edo State in particular and indeed the entire franchise area of BEDC.
He, however, appealed to the civil society groups, residents and stakeholders in the Benin Disco area to exercise restraint and allow the company perform its functions without hindrances.
Earlier, managing director of the BEDC, Funke Osibodu, disclosed that the organisation signed memorandum of understanding with Rubitec Nigeria Limited and Rocky Mountain Institute to provide mini-grid electricity solution.
She said the tripartite MoU was part of the process to boost power availability to customers in remote communities within its areas of operation.
The BEDC boss assured that the company was working with Transmission Company of Nigeria to resolve all challenges with a view to improve power availability to the affected areas.
She added that failed TCN transformers had denied the company capacity to supply close to 100mw of power, which has negative affected about 200,000 customers.