The power sector has been a great setback to the Nigerian economy. In the past years, a lot of companies and industries folded or suspended their operations in the country due to epileptic power supply. The manufacturing industries cannot function efficiently without constant power supply. It is, therefore, commendable that Governor Chukwuma Soludo has prioritized power in his first year in office. The recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, EEDC, to ensure the provision of 24/7 electricity supply in Anambra State is a masterstroke.
As an economist, Professor Soludo has demonstrated that he understands the vehicle that drives every economy. A decrease in production due to lack of electricity means that businesses will lay off workers, resulting in unemployment. Governor Soludo has hinted that the economy of Nigeria especially that of Anambra State must be production-driven for a sustainable growth and development and to achieve that there is need to reverse the poor power supply narrative in the state.
Thus, among other things, the governor sent a striking message to Ndi Anambra who has various excuses for not thinking home to do so now. It is equally a charming attraction for investors who are searching for a favourable business ecosystem to operate.
Before electricity was decentralized in Nigeria, the power sector suffered enough neglect. It was an ambiance for corrupt government officials to grow fat. Nigerians bemoaned the fact that a smaller country being served from the national grid enjoys constant electricity while Nigerians languish in perpetual darkness. Electricity supply in Nigeria went from the sublime to the ridiculous. However, decentralized power sector promises a better future. Decentralized energy sector is the production of electricity at or near the point of use, irrespective of size or technology. The
adoption of renewable energy technologies in a decentralized manner, especially for rural communities and in stand-alone applications, will improve electricity supply and enhance the overall economic development. Nigeria’s limited power sector has continued to hinder its economic growth and prosperity. President Muhammadu Buhari had announced that the Federal Government commenced the decentralization of the national grid to address the challenges of power supply across the country. The Federal Government said the $550 million Nigeria Electrification Project has deployed more than 20,000 Standalone Solar Systems (SHS) as well as Solar Hybrid mini-grids in over 250 locations.
What the decentralization of the energy sector means is that state governments can immediately take steps to address the local energy needs of their residents. This is why the 24th March 2023 signing of MoU by the Anambra State Government and EEDC for 24 hours – a day electricity supply in the state is strategic. The MoU is expected to improve power supply and fulfill the vision of an Anambra State that is liveable, green and prosperous. With an increased electricity generation and supply, the state will begin its baby steps of transformation from an informal sector driven economy to an industrialized state. According to Governor Soludo, Anambra cannot have sustainable industrialization without power.
The efforts of the Prof. Soludo and the APGA-led government in the state must be commended in their quest to move Anambra State from consumption to production. Prof. Soludo is on course to boost the economy of the state by rewiring the industrial sector. Anambra State is now a hub for intending investors. Other states must emulate these urgent steps to address the challenge of power in Nigeria.
Written by  WILFRED OBIOTIKA
Comments are closed for this post.