By Ojugbele Omotunde
In response to the persistent challenges of inadequate electricity supply in the North East region of Nigeria, the governors of the six states in the region have announced a strategic move to acquire independent power plants.
This decision was unveiled during their ninth regional meeting held in Yola, the capital of Adamawa State, on Saturday.
The North East Governors Forum (NEGF), an assembly of the region’s governors, officially disclosed this initiative in a statement delivered by Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, subsequent to a closed-door meeting.
The statement, signed by NEGF chairman and governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum, outlined the forum’s commitment to addressing the prevailing energy crisis in the region.
In an effort to ameliorate the power supply situation, NEGF announced a collaborative venture with Shanghai Electric to establish power plants capable of generating either 60 MW of coal or 50 MW of solar energy in each state within the North East region.
This strategic move is anticipated to significantly augment the existing power infrastructure and elevate the overall quality of electricity supply.
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The governors also raised concerns about the deteriorating condition of federal highways within the region, citing the adverse effects on development and the escalating insecurity situation.
Consequently, the forum urged the federal ministry of works to undertake road contracts promptly and appealed to the North East Development Commission to play a pivotal role in addressing this critical issue.
In addition to addressing infrastructural challenges, the governors highlighted the absence of functional rail lines in the entire Northeast.
They called for inclusion in the Nigerian National Railway Transport plan, advocating for the implementation of modern gauge rail systems to enhance connectivity and facilitate economic development.
Expressing appreciation, the governors acknowledged the support of the Bauchi State government for hosting the North East Regional Trade Fair scheduled to take place from February 26 to March 3, 2024.
They urged active participation from all subnational entities in the region and extended an invitation to the nation, the African continent, and the global community to explore the abundant tourism opportunities, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality that the North East has to offer.
Concluding their deliberations, the governors decided to convene their tenth meeting in Bauchi between February 23 and March 26, 2024, marking another step in their collective efforts to address the multifaceted challenges facing the North East region.
