MAIDUGURI: Min. Of Power Issues 50MW Generating Licence To NNPC Limited

Engr. Abubakar D. Aliyu, Minister of Power, has granted NNPC Company Limited a 50MW generating licence for the Maiduguri Emergency Power Project (MEPP), which will generate energy for the Borno state capital and its environs.

Engr. Abubakar emphasised the government of President Muhammadu Buhari’s commitment to providing energy and supporting efforts to address electricity difficulties by both private and public institutions across the country at a brief ceremony in his office on Friday.

Speaking about the unusual situation in Maiduguri, where an insurgency disrupted power lines, leaving the entire state without electricity, Abubakar said he was pleased that the NNPC Limited expressed interest in investing in a 50MW power station to boost electricity supply in the state and possibly its environs. He stated that, while efforts are underway to restore the 330 lines destroyed by insurgents, other arrangements, such as the 33 double circuit lines from Damaturu to Maiduguri currently being procured by the Ministry of Power, will undoubtedly provide the state with various options for electricity supply.

Earlier, Mr Sanusi Garba, Chairman of the Nigeria Electricity Regulation Commission (NERC), explained how the licence was obtained through an application by NNPC Limited for the generation of a 50MW power station and the submission of all necessary and required documents, including their business plan. He stated that while NERC granted the application, it came with restrictions and limitations, and the licence is valid for ten years and is renewable.

Responding, NNPC Ltd Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mele Kyari said NNPC Ltd sees itself beyond a petroleum company and as such is investing in several power plants across the country which is part of the key agenda of the company.

He said the company is also investing in renewable energy\ across the country.

He expressed delight at the licence to operate issued to them by the Ministry of Power noting that the investment will surely recover its cost. He said further engagements between NNPC Ltd and the Ministry of power will continue to ensure the quick completion of the project.