All Posts in "Month: November 2024"

Mainstream Energy Wins Merit Award,Attributes Feat To Collective Responsibility

      Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited (MESL),operator of Kainji, Jebba, and Zungeru hydropower plants,has won the prestigious Afrisafe Merit Award for its outstanding commitment to safety excellence in the energy sector.

 

 

It was presented at the 2024 Africa Safety Congress in Livingston, Zambia.

 

 

 

The Merit Award recognizes organizations demonstrating exceptional dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of employees, customers, and the environment.

 

 

 

Accepting the award,the Managing Director/CEO Engr. Lamu Audu,who was also honoured as the 2024 Afrisafe CEO of the Year; Energy Services,said:“We’re thrilled to receive this award, underscoring our unrelenting commitment to safety.

 

 

 

 

“Our tireless efforts to maintain the highest safety standards have paid off, making us industry leaders,” Dr. Iwunze emphasized. “Congratulations to my colleagues for their outstanding safety culture and to Afrisafe for recognizing excellence.”

 

 

 

Dr. Prisca Ngozi Iwunze, Mainstream’s Head of Quality, Health,Safety, and Environment,represented him at the event.

 

 

 

The company’s boss attributed the awards to collective responsibility and commitment, stating, “These recognitions wouldn’t have been possible without our Board of Directors, Executive management, staff, and stakeholders.”

 

 

 

Some of MESL’s safety initiatives include the Monthly ‘Walk the Talk’, a well-articulated Quarterly Health Talk,Spot the hazard, 5S Methodology, and the popular Annual Safety Week celebrations.

 

 

 

The company’s efforts are reinforced by its certifications to internationally recognized standards which are: – ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management System), ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management System) and ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health and Safety Management System).

 

 

 

According to Afrisafe,“MESL’s certifications showcase their commitment to excellence in quality, environmental management, and occupational health and safety, serving as a shining example for the industry.”

 

 

 

Dr. Iwunze noted that the award will significantly impact the electricity industry, demonstrating Mainstream’s exceptional safety record, with over 7.5 million man-hours without Lost Time Injury (LTI).

 

 

 

 

Iwunze added that the achievement will challenge other operators to prioritize safety, reducing accidents, saving lives, assets, and equipment, and ultimately providing more energy to the national grid while minimizing outages and environmental harm.

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — November 18, 2024 in Next Level 0
Army Destroys 46 Illegal Refining Sites,Heightens War Against Saboteurs

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

Operatives of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, in conjunction with sister security agencies, have destroyed 46 illegal refining sites, arresting five suspected oil thieves in the Niger Delta region.

 

 

 

 

This was contained in a statement signed by the Acting Deputy Director 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma on Sunday.

 

 

 

 

 

He highlighted that the army between November 11 and 17, 2024, recovered several ammunition, deactivating 46 illegal refining sites, and confiscation of over 95,000 litres of stolen products.

 

 

 

 

According to him,the troops in Rivers State, encountered armed vandals along the Oando pipeline in Ebocha, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, and after a firefight, the criminals fled, abandoning an AK-47 rifle and a magazine loaded with 17 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

 

 

 

 

He said large wooden boats conveying over 28,320 litres of stolen crude were intercepted around Obiafu-Ndoni, leading to the arrest of seven suspected oil thieves.

 

 

 

 

He added that several successful operations also were conducted around Buguma in Asari Toru Local Government Area, where over 9,500 litres of stolen products were recovered, while 10,500 litres of stolen Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) were confiscated around Tuma and Krakrama in Degema Local Government Area in Rivers State.

 

 

 

 

In Bayelsa State, Danjuma disclosed that troops deactivated two illegal refining sites, recovered over 6,000 litres of stolen products, and seized two boats at Tunu and Clough Creeks in the Ekeremor Local Government Area.

 

 

 

 

The statement reads in part, “Similar operations were conducted in Nembe and Ogbia Local Government Areas, resulting in the destruction of several illegal refining sites and the recovery of over 3,000 litres of stolen products.

 

 

 

“In Delta State, troops intercepted a Sienna bus loaded with 28 cellophane bags of stolen AGO/Condensates at Oyede community in Isoko South Local Government Area, while in Akwa Ibom State, several vehicles were intercepted along Ikot Akan community in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area, resulting in the recovery of over 2,160 litres of stolen AGO and the arrest of five suspects.”

 

 

 

He said the arrested suspects and products confiscated during the operations have been handed over to the relevant agency for prosecution.

 

 

 

The General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, commended the troops, reassuring that the Division will continue to conduct operations to safeguard critical national infrastructures in the region, clearing the area of economic saboteurs and ensuring an increase in oil output.

 

Online Editor by — November 17, 2024 in News 0
Ondo Poll:Aiyedatiwa Waves Olive Branch,Dedicates Victory To Akeredolu 

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo state,has waved an olive branch as he invited all other contestants in the  Saturday’s governorship election to join him in moving the state forward.

 

 

 

 

He was declared winner by Prof. Olayemi Akinwunmi, Vice Chancellor, Federal University, Lokoja, Kogi State, having polled 366781 votes, while Agboola Ajayi of Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) polled 117,845 votes.

 

 

 

 

In his acceptance speech,he promised to run an all inclusive government, calling on poliyicoans across political paries to put their differences aside and work with him.

 

 

 

 

He dedicated his victory at the poll to his late boss, the immediate past governor of the state, the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

 

 

 

 

 

He said:”My fellow citizens of Ondo State,I stand before you this day, on the threshold of history, to accept the results of the 2024 gubernatorial elections held in our Sunshine State.

 

 

“I must say that  I feel greatly humbled and honoured by this renewed mandate you have given me to continue in office as your Governor. I am overwhelmed with gratitude and I pledge to work tirelessly to justify the trust you have reposed in me.

 

 

 

“Let me commend the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting a free, fair, and credible election. The security agencies across board are also deserving of our gratitude for being very professional in their assignment and maintaining peace throughout the exercise.

 

 

 

“As your Governor, I promise to continue to run an inclusive and participatory government, where every citizen has a voice and an opportunity to contribute to our collective progress.

 

 

 

“We will continue to prioritize the welfare of our people, foster economic growth, and ensure that our state remains a beacon of hope and prosperity for generations to come.

 

 

“Now that the elections are over, it is time to rededicate ourselves to the service of our dear state.

 

 

 

“I therefore want to extend a hand of fellowship to the opposition parties and to invite you to collaborate with us in the onerous task of building a better Ondo State for the overall good of our people.

 

 

 

“Let us put aside our differences and work together to create a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and our communities.

 

 

“Finally, I dedicate this victory,  first to the Almighty God and second, to the memories of our departed leader and former Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON.”

 

 

He appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, leadership of APC, the national chairman of the party, Alhaji Abdulahi Umar Ganduje, the National Campaign Council of Ondo Governorship Election led by the Governor, Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, among others for their unwavering support.

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — November 17, 2024 in Politics 0
Ekiti State Holds Public Engagement On Tourism Policy Tuesday

        Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

Ekiti State will hold a public engagement session focused on its tourism policy this Tuesday in a landmark initiative aimed at enhancing tourism and strengthening community involvement,

 

 

 

 

 

This event underscores Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and sustainable development within the tourism sector.

 

 

 

Hosted by the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, the session seeks to unite stakeholders, community members, and industry experts in discussions surrounding the tourism policy framework.

 

 

 

The session will take place on Tuesday at the Lady Jibowu Centre, Governor’s House, Ado Ekiti, from 10 AM to 5 PM. All interested parties, including tourism operators, community members, business owners, and media representatives, are warmly invited to participate.

 

 

 

 

The event will feature presentations, interactive breakout discussions, and a questions & answers session, ensuring that all voices are heard in shaping the future of Ekiti’s tourism landscape.

 

 

 

 

Participants will have the opportunity to provide feedback and contribute to a shared vision for tourism’s pivotal role in Ekiti’s economic growth.

 

 

 

 

The tourism sector in Ekiti State is poised for significant expansion, with the potential to generate jobs, stimulate local businesses, and preserve the state’s rich cultural heritage. With its natural attractions, historical landmarks, and vibrant cultural events, Ekiti is well-positioned to attract both domestic and international visitors.

 

 

 

 

However, as the industry continues to grow, a comprehensive tourism policy is essential for effective resource management, cultural heritage protection, and the establishment of guidelines for sustainable tourism development.

 

 

 

 

Amb. Wale Ojo-Lanre, Esq., Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism, emphasized the import of a robust tourism policy.

 

 

 

 

He stated that such a policy serves as a strategic roadmap, directing the sustainable growth of the industry. It defines key objectives, establishes benchmarks, and aligns resources to support tourism’s expansion while safeguarding local heritage.

 

 

 

He added:”For Ekiti State, this tourism policy will focus on:Promoting Sustainable Development:The policy will advocate for eco-friendly practices that protect Ekiti’s natural attractions, cultural sites, and biodiversity for future generations.

 

 

 

“Boosting economic growth and job creation:By establishing clear objectives and standards, the policy will attract investments in tourism infrastructure, leading to job creation, increased revenue for local businesses, and improved tourism-related services.

 

 

 

 

“Enhancing local and international tourism appeal:By identifying key development areas and setting high standards, the policy aims to elevate Ekiti’s status as a sought-after tourism destination, encouraging longer visits from tourists.

 

 

 

 

“Safeguarding cultural heritage and promoting unity:The tourism policy will prioritize cultural preservation, ensuring that Ekiti’s heritage is responsibly celebrated and shared, fostering a sense of unity and pride among residents”.

 

 

 

 

Amb. Wale Ojo-Lanre, Esq, further highlighted the necessity of public engagement in tourism policy development.

 

 

 

 

 

He stated that public involvement is crucial for effective policymaking,adding that the decision to host this public forum reflects Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s commitment to transparency, inclusion, and shared responsibility.

 

 

 

 

By engaging the community in discussions, the Bureau of Tourism Development,he said,aims to create a policy that is comprehensive and reflective of the community’s needs and aspirations.

 

 

 

 

 

According to him,the public engagement session is designed to gather diverse perspectives, allowing policymakers to understand the views and requirements of various stakeholders, including community leaders, local business owners, cultural custodians, and tourism operators.

 

 

 

 

Enhancing policy effectiveness is key—when community members feel their opinions are valued, there is a heightened likelihood of public support for the policy’s implementation, which is critical for its long-term success.

 

 

 

 

The event promotes transparency and accountability, creating an open platform where residents can voice concerns, ask questions, and better understand the policy’s goals and expected outcomes. Additionally, involving the public in policy development fosters a sense of ownership among residents, who will ultimately become ambassadors of Ekiti’s tourism vision.

 

 

 

 

 

The Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development is dedicated to positioning Ekiti as a premier tourism destination in Nigeria through policy development, infrastructure improvements, and community engagement. By collaborating with various stakeholders, the Bureau aims to foster an inclusive and sustainable tourism industry that enhances both economic vitality and the quality of life for all residents.

 

 

 

 

 

This engagement marks a pivotal chapter in Ekiti’s tourism journey, bringing together residents and leaders to ensure a bright, inclusive, and sustainable future for the state’s tourism sector.

 

 

Online Editor by — November 17, 2024 in Travel & Tourism 0
Over 300 Youths Benefit As NLNG Commences Nigerian Content HCD Trainings

      Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

The Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas Limited,has kicked off its Nigerian Content Human Capacity Development (NC-HCD) Basic Training Programme for the NLNG Train 7 Project, a major Nigerian Content programme aimed at reskilling young graduates and developing human capital.

 

 

 

A total of 331 young graduates from diverse academic disciplines who emerged successful out of 848 previously shortlisted from the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content (NOGIC) Joint Qualification System (JQS) portal of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), are undergoing the 12-month programme,a statement said on Sunday.

 

 

 

According to the statement,areas of training include ICT, Engineering, Welding and Fabrication, Non-destructive Testing (NDT), Lifting and Working at Heights, Quality Management Systems, Marine and Offshore Services, and Facility Management and Maintenance.

 

 

Speaking at the event, the NLNG Train 7 Corporate Liaison Manager, Engr Joshua Anemeje, who represented the Train 7 project, said the execution of the project has progressed remarkably well and attributed the successful commencement of the NC-HCD Training Programme to the support of the NCDMB.

 

 

 

“We are excited to see the number of young men and women this programme will impact. NLNG takes pride in empowering our people, providing an environment that builds skills and capabilities. As you know, the Train 7 Project is nearly 75% complete, employing over 10,000 skilled individuals on-site. This training offers participants a chance to make the most of their learning and apply it in future endeavours,” he said.

 

 

 

 

 

Engr Anemeje disclosed that there are over 10,000 workers actively engaged in the construction of the Train 7 Project at the NLNG Plant Site at Finima, Bonny Island, Rivers State. He charged the trainees to stay focused and work towards utilising the skills they acquire for future endeavours.

 

 

 

 

In the keynote address,the NCDMB Executive Secretary, Engr Felix Ogbe, FNSE, represented by the Director of Capacity Building and Corporate Services, Dr Ama Ikuru, expressed joy that the training programme had finally taken off in fulfilment of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act requirement on human capital development.

 

 

 

He said the programme, designed to build a pool of skilled and globally competitive workers to support the development and growth of the Nigerian oil and gas industry and its related sectors, represents a crucial investment in our country’s future and remains a commitment to the empowerment of the next generation of skilled professionals.

 

 

 

Addressing the trainees, Dr. Ikuru stated that the opportunity created by the NC-HCD programme will enable them to build a strong foundation in both knowledge and practical skills. He remarked that there was a clear pathway to employment for high-performing trainees.

 

 

 

He further remarked that young graduates seeking to benefit from similar training for oil and gas industry-related jobs can register on the NCDMB’s NOGIC JQS Portal, which is the statutorily established database for companies operating and providing services in the sector.

 

 

The training is provided by the Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria (OGTAN).

 

 

The Train 7 Project is expected to increase the production capacity of the NLNG Terminal by 35 per cent, from the current 22 million metric tonnes per annum (mtpa) to 30 mtpa.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — November 17, 2024 in Oil&Gas 0
Nigeria,India Sign Bilateral Deal On Counterterrorism,Maritime Security

     Mohammed Shosanya

Nigeria and India have reaffirmed their commitment to a robust strategic partnership, pledging to strengthen ties in key areas including economic development, defence, healthcare and food security.

This is conveyed in a  joint statement issued on Sunday in Abuja at the conclusion of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Nigeria at the invitation of President Bola Tinubu.

During their bilateral discussion,the two leaders agreed to a greater collaboration in counterterrorism, maritime security, and intelligence sharing.

With growing threats in the Gulf of Guinea and the Indian Ocean, they also agreed to coordinated actions to safeguard maritime trade routes and combat piracy.

The two countries pledged to continue regular naval exercises and joint anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Guinea to safeguard critical maritime routes.

”The leaders reiterated their unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations including the cross-border movement of terrorists and terror financing networks and safe havens.

”They called for zero tolerance to terrorism and expeditious finalization and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International terrorism in the UN Framework as well as implementation of the UNGA and the UNSC resolutions on countering terrorism and violent extremism.

”It was agreed to enhance cooperation in the area of counter terrorism,” the joint statement said.

Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s readiness to support Nigeria’s defence modernization efforts, highlighting India’s emergence as a trusted defence manufacturer.

The two leaders also highlighted the vibrant economic relationship between India and Nigeria, with India positioned as Nigeria’s largest trading partner and a significant contributor to its economy.

Meanwhile,President Bola Tinubu has conferred the national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on visiting Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi.

Tinubu honoured the Indian Prime Minister on Sunday, November 17, during the Nigeria/India Bilateral meeting held at the Presidential villa, Abuja.

The meeting is part of the activities marking the state visit of the Indian Prime Minister.

Tinubu said that the invitation extended to the Indian PM was to rekindle existing relationship between Nigeria and India.

“Nigeria values its excellent relationship with India, and we work to deepen and broaden the same to the mutual benefit of our two friendly countries.

“You represent a very strong commitment in democratic values and norms, you have been doing a good job historically, winning three consecutive elections in a complex society is a feat that we respect so much.

“I will confer on you today, the Prime Minister of India, Nigeria’s National Honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger.This to signify Nigerian appreciation and commitment to India as a partner”, he said.

Online Editor by — November 17, 2024 in News 0
Ondo Poll:Tinubu Tells Losers To Seek Redress In Court

 

    Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the winner of Saturday’s Ondo State Governorship election,Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress.

 

 

 

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga on Sunday,Tinubu urged candidates dissatisfied with the outcome of the election to explore the opportunities provided by the judicial system to seek redress on areas of conflict.

 

 

 

He commended all stakeholders for the peaceful conduct of the process.

 

 

 

 

He also commended Aiyedatiwa and other candidates of the 17 political parties for their maturity and sense of purpose demonstrated during the campaigns and the election.

 

 

 

 

He said,the success of the polls is attributed to the civility in the state.

 

 

 

He enjoined the political actors to allow their orderly conduct to permeate the post-election activities and processes.

 

 

 

The statement reads:”The President  believes the Ondo State election was another litmus test of the capacity of the Independent National Electoral Commission, affirming that the electoral body justified the confidence of the people with early preparations, deployment of staff and materials, and handling of the electoral process.

 

 

 

 

“The President commends INEC for the efficiency of uploading more than 98 per cent of results on the same day of the elections.

 

 

 

“He extends his appreciation to the Nigerian Police Force, National Civil Defence Corps, Federal Road Safety Corps, National Youth Service Corps,the military and other security outfits for their professionalism in maintaining peace and order”.

 

 

Online Editor by — November 17, 2024 in Politics 0
Nigeria Needs Youth-Friendly Electoral Strategies In Nigeria-Group

 

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

The New Generation Girls and Women Development Initiative (NIGAWD), leading the Youth-led Electoral Reform Project (YERP-Naija) in Southwest Nigeria,has called for youth-friendly electoral strategies in the country.

 

 

 

 

The group also advocated the use of digital tools like SMS and emails to inform voters about PVC collection.

 

 

 

 

In a statement  signed by Abimbola Aladejare-Salako,Executive Director, NIGAWD,the group emphasized the need for expansion of PVC collection points to locations close to youth-centered locations like tertiary institutions.

 

 

 

According to the group,the country must ensure adequate training of ad-hoc staff to improve election-day efficiency.

 

 

 

It added:”These measures aim to restore public confidence in INEC and increase youth participation. INEC has been receptive in adopting these recommendations towards their administrative and logistics preparations leading to today. YERP Naija commend this positive move by INEC”

 

 

 

The group implored all young people in Ondo State to seize this opportunity to cast their votes objectively and responsibly,as well as use their PVC to elect the candidate of your choice without succumbing to financial inducements.

 

 

 

The group also advised the youths to reject any attempt to involve them in acts of violence.

 

 

 

 

The statement added:”Our volunteers, a non-partisan team deployed across all 18 local government areas, are observing INEC and key stakeholders like the Police and other security agencies to ensure adherence to election guidelines.

 

 

 

 

“Using the YERP-Naija Election Process Observation Survey Tool (YNEPOST), they will monitor critical aspects of the electoral process. Feedback from these observations will be shared with the people of Ondo State and Nigerians at large, ensuring transparency and accountability.

 

 

“The Ondo gubernatorial election marks a significant step in Nigeria’s democratic journey. As young people lead the charge for reform, we celebrate their role as change-makers in promoting free, fair, and credible elections. As votes are cast, we urge all stakeholders to uphold the integrity of the process and to prioritize the will of the people at the polling units and collation centres for more inclusive democracy in Nigeria”.

 

 

Online Editor by — November 16, 2024 in Politics 0
We’ll Accelerate Development Of N/Delta Region-NDDC

 

         Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has assured its stakeholders that the Commission will remain committed to delivering on its mandate of fast-tracking the development of the Niger Delta region.

 

 

 

 

 

Its Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku,gave the assurance during a solidarity visit by leaders of the Ijaw Youth Council worldwide, IYC, to the Commission’s headquarters in Port Harcourt.

 

 

 

 

Ogbuku,who was represented by the NDDC Executive Director, Projects, Sir Victor Antai, said it was important to aggregate the views of major groups to give impetus to the development programmes driven by the NDDC.

 

 

 

The NDDC boss,according to a statement signed by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, the commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs,commended the IYC leaders for supporting and defending the NDDC to ensure that those trying to destabilise the Commission by calling for protests against the leadership did not have their way.

 

 

 

 

 

He said that the Commission would not be distracted in its determination to do things differently and effectively transiting from transaction to transformation.

 

 

 

 

He restated the commitment of the NDDC to finalise action on the selection of beneficiaries of the NDDC Youth Internship Scheme to ensure that they would start receiving their N50,000 stipend from next month.

 

 

The NDDC has also given more opportunities and hope to Niger Delta youths through its innovative programme called Holistic Opportunity Projects of Engagement,HOPE,he said.

 

 

 

 

He added that the Commission was focused on completing and commissioning legacy projects across the Niger Delta region.

 

 

 

 

Speaking earlier,the President of the Ijaw Youth Council, Ambassador Jonathan Lopkobiri, represented by the Deputy National President, Comrade Atigbi Freedom, apologised to the NDDC for a group claiming to speak for the IYC threatening to protest against the Commission.

 

 

 

 

He lauded the NDDC for making genuine efforts to stabilize the Niger Delta region through youth empowerment programs.

 

 

 

 

The IYC Deputy National President wondered why any Niger Delta would want to protest against the NDDC under Dr Samuel Ogbuku as Managing Director, describing Ogbuku as “a man who has shown and demonstrated a clear commitment to redefining the NDDC for the betterment of the people.”

 

 

 

 

Besides,the IYC leaders specifically cautioned Mr. Theophilus Alaye,who led a group that called for a protest against the NDDC.

 

 

Comrade Atigbi Freedom,who addressed a press conference in Port Harcourt, lamented that the Alaye group’s pronouncements and actions had tarnished its image.

 

 

He warned: “As a council, while we will continue to advocate for the growth, advancement, unity, and progress of the Ijaw nation and the Niger Delta at large, the Council will not sit idly by and watch as people try to trample on the hard-earned peace that we have collectively fought to achieve.”

 

 

 

“We are responding to correct the wrong impression created by Alaye before the public that the IYC is at war with the NDDC. If not corrected, this misleading information might be seen as the truth. The IYC, as one united family, is solely under the leadership of Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri as President.”

 

 

 

Online Editor by — November 16, 2024 in Niger Delta 0
Akwa Ibom Blackout Due To Fault On Aba-Itu Transmission Line-Accugas Limited

 

           Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

Accugas Limited, a subsidiary of Savannah Energy,has denied involvement in the current power outage in Akwa Ibom State.

 

 

 

Sacked former Managing Director of Ibom Power Company Limited, Engr. Meyen Etukudoh,had fingered Savannah Energy as reason behind the statewide blackout.

 

 

 

He explained that the blackout was triggered by Savannah Energy’s decision to cut off gas supply to the plant.

 

 

 

 

He claimed that Savannah Energy subsidiary’s actions sabotaged their efforts to provide electricity to the state.

 

 

 

In a statement on Saturday,Savannah Energy,attributed the power cut in Akwa Ibom State to the reported fault in the 132-KV Aba-Itu transmission line,which, it said,is preventing power being transmitted from the national grid into the state.

 

 

 

The statement quoted that it’s imperative that the restoration of the Aba-Itu line is completed as soon as possible.

 

 

 

It added:”Ibom Power Company (“IPC”) is one of 23 thermal power generation companies which channel power to the national grid, which in turn disseminates all accumulated power to each State of the Federation through the electricity distribution companies (“Discos”).

 

 

 

“Indeed,Accugas supplies gas to enable c. 20% of Nigeria’s thermal generation capacity and, as such, is a critical enabler of the Nigerian economy”.

 

 

 

The statement also quoted that within Akwa Ibom,Accugas has been the sole supplier of gas to IPC since 2014 and, together with other Savannah subsidiaries, has invested over US$1.5 billion in gas development within the state.

 

 

 

Besides,Savannah has recently invested c. US$45 million in a gas compression project at Accugas’ Uquo central processing facility at Esit Eket. Accugas’ commitments also extend to several social investment projects in the state.

 

 

 

It said:”All the foregoing investments and projects, including other imminent investments Accugas intends to make in the State, demonstrate the company’s long-term commitment to Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.

 

 

 

“Accugas will continue to partner with, and support, the government of Akwa Ibom State towards achieving the government’s agenda for economic development and prosperity of the state”.

 

Online Editor by — November 16, 2024 in Power 0