- NNPC and the Borno State Government want to construct a gas power plant in the State.
- Maiduguri has seen recent attacks on electricity installations by members of the terrorist group Boko Haram.
- The NNPC GMD noted that Kyari noted that a gas plant in the state could potentially provide electricity to neighbouring countries and cities.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Borno State Government are discussing constructing a gas power plant in the State capital of Maiduguri.
The Group Managing Director of NNPC, Mele Kyari, made the announcement over the weekend in Maiduguri. The city has suffered from long spells of blackouts following attacks on electricity installations by members of the terrorist group Boko Haram in recent weeks. Kyari, while meeting with the Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, noted that as the federal government looks to increase domestic gas consumption, that this represents an opportunity to support the state in solving its electricity supply challenges.
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Kyari noted that the NNPC is now a partner in the value chain and that there is every possibility of establishing a dedicated power plant in Maiduguri. He noted that the gas plant could potentially provide electricity to neighbouring countries and cities. However, he noted that any development would require significant work from the state government, especially in providing basic infrastructure.
Governor Zulum noted that a constant power supply could reduce insurgency in the state as it is necessary to empower the economic activities of millions.