KEDCO Apologizes for Power Shortage, Cites Grid Issues and Vandalism
By Mustapha Salisu
The Kano Electricity Distribution Plc (KEDCO) has issued an apology to its customers in Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa States, following recent disruptions in power supply.
The outages, according to KEDCO, are due to disturbances on the national grid, compounded by incidents of vandalism that damaged two towers on the 330kV Shiroro-Kaduna transmission lines.
During a press briefing today at KEDCO’s Head Office in Kano, Dr Abubakar Jimeta, Chief Commercial Officer at KEDCO, disclosed that two towers, T133 and T136, suffered significant damage. The vandalism has further complicated efforts to stabilize the power supply in the region.
Dr. Jimeta noted that while attempts to reclose the tripped lines are ongoing, KEDCO has resorted to sourcing bulk power through the alternate 330kV Kaduna-Jos transmission line, although with load limitations.
“This temporary arrangement is expected to continue until repairs on the Shiroro-Kaduna line are completed” he noted.
PRIME TIME NEWS reports that KEDCO assured its customers that it is working closely with the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to expedite the repairs. Efforts by TCN for emergency restoration of the affected lines are also underway.
In addition to addressing the immediate power challenges, Dr. Jimeta emphasized KEDCO’s long-term vision of reducing dependence on grid power.
“Through its core investor, Future Energies Africa (FEA), our company is working on expanding its renewable energy capacity and implementing MiniGrid solutions. These measures will provide more stable and sustainable electricity in the future” Dr. Jimeta disclosed.
He called on the public to report any suspicious activity related to electrical infrastructure via 070055551111 and assured customers that they are collaborating with security agencies to clamp down on vandals.
“Several arrests and prosecutions have already been made in connection with the recent acts of vandalism” the Commercial Officer dislosed.
Dr. Jimeta pledged that KEDCO will continue to provide regular updates as the situation evolves and appealed for customers’ patience and cooperation during this challenging period.
