- The EFCC is investigating corruption and mismanagement in Nigeria’s power sector, and Chairman Ola Olukoyede has warned that the findings will be alarming.
- Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) has secured $100 million to create a 100MW “Safe Grid” system to provide reliable power to Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states and reduce dependence on the national grid.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), led by Chairman Ola Olukoyede, investigates alleged mismanagement and corruption in Nigeria’s power sector. During a meeting with the House of Representatives Committee on Anti-Corruption, Olukoyede expressed concerns over ongoing challenges, including substandard contracts and equipment failures, which are crippling the sector. He warned that the investigation findings would be shocking, revealing widespread financial mismanagement.
The EFCC’s new Fraud Risk Assessment Directorate is collaborating with the Office of the Accountant General to monitor power sector spending and improve capital project execution, which has historically been under 20% in the past two decades.
Meanwhile, Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) has secured a $100 million investment to develop a 100MW “Safe Grid” system for Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states. The initiative aims to provide a stable 24-hour power supply to critical industries and government facilities, reducing reliance on the national grid. KEDCO is also partnering with Utilita Energy to build a 20MW power plant and integrate renewable energy sources such as solar and hydroelectric power.
The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has called for exploring alternative energy sources beyond hydro and gas to meet the country’s power needs. NSE President, Mrs Margaret Oguntala, also emphasised the need for better placement and compensation of engineers in public service and highlighted ongoing efforts to promote renewable energy and address food security challenges.
The NSE’s upcoming national conference will focus on sustainable engineering solutions for food security and climate change, focusing on renewable energy, smart farming, and climate resilience.