- Members of MAN in Kano seek direct electricity supply from NDPHC to tackle severe power shortages affecting local industries.
- KEDCO rejected the move, citing N3bn discounts and 20-hour daily supply to MAN feeders, while accusing manufacturers of energy theft and misrepresentation.
A plan by members of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) in Kano State to buy electricity directly from the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) has triggered a dispute with their current supplier, Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO).
MAN said the move would address severe power shortages crippling local industries. However, KEDCO accused the association of antagonism despite offering N3 billion in discounts over the past year. The utility company also alleged that MAN members engaged in energy theft, costing it N2.5 billion monthly.
“KEDCO has consistently prioritised stable power to over 50 industrial feeders across Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa States, making it the best DisCo for manufacturers in Nigeria,” said Sani Bala, KEDCO’s Head of Corporate Communication. He warned that the utility would no longer channel support through MAN, insisting its operations would not be significantly affected even if direct supply from NDPHC were allowed under regulations.
Meanwhile, a MAN delegation led by Dala Foods Managing Director Ali Madugu met with NDPHC chief Jennifer Adighije to request access under the Eligible Customer Programme. Madugu said direct supply would revive industries and sustain jobs, while Adighije pledged to support the manufacturers “within the ambit of regulations and infrastructural capacity.”
The clash underscores growing tensions in Nigeria’s electricity market, as manufacturers push for reliable and affordable power to protect industrial output and jobs.