Minister assures Borno of steady gas supply for power
Published By: Oluwapelumi Oluwayemi
Mr. Ekperikpe Ekpo, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), has assured residents of Borno State of a steady gas supply to power the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant (MEPP), aimed at ensuring stable electricity in the region.
Speaking to journalists on Saturday after inspecting the power plant, Ekpo emphasized the federal government’s commitment to leveraging gas as a driver for Nigeria’s economic development.
“I have been briefed that the single aspect of the plant generating about 33 megawatts is completed, while the combined aspect, which will add 18 megawatts, is in progress and set for commissioning next year,” Ekpo stated.
The minister highlighted the progress of the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline project, which is over 90% completed. He disclosed that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) is working on establishing a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plant in Kano to enhance gas processing and distribution.
“The federal government is on course. With AKK nearing completion, the economic life of people in the northern states will transform significantly,” Ekpo assured.
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Ekpo commended the Borno State government for fostering an enabling environment for the MEPP’s execution and lauded the NNPCL for delivering on the former President Muhammadu Buhari’s directive to provide emergency power to the state.
“This project is a testament to the potential of gas-powered plants when implemented by determined teams. The single circuit is already operational, and the ongoing combined circuit is set for completion by January 2025, alongside an eight-day gas storage facility,” he added.
He also emphasized the importance of power supply in driving economic activities in Borno, expressing optimism that similar projects would be replicated across other states to boost development nationwide.
Deputy Governor Umar Kadafur thanked the federal government and the NNPCL for prioritizing Borno State, acknowledging the project’s role in revitalizing economic and social activities in the region.
