The Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, has commissioned 70 electricity transformers for distribution across communities in the state, marking a significant boost to power infrastructure and rural electrification efforts.
The commissioning ceremony also featured the announcement that mobilization has been completed for the installation of a 132KVA transmission line project aimed at serving communities in the Southern and Central Senatorial Zones.
Speaking during the flag-off of the distribution exercise, Governor Mutfwang described the initiative as a strategic intervention to strengthen electricity supply, particularly in vulnerable and underserved areas.
According to the Governor, although 55 transformers were initially approved, the government later increased the number by 15 to meet rising demand, bringing the total to 70.
“Access to electricity is not a privilege; it is a right,” he stated, emphasizing that reliable power supply is critical to economic growth, small and medium-scale enterprise development, job creation, and improved living standards.
Governor Mutfwang further disclosed that discussions with the Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JEDC) have been finalized to restore electricity to Miango and Rukuba communities that have experienced prolonged outages.
He explained that while power generation in Nigeria has improved, transmission and distribution remain major bottlenecks, noting that transformers are essential for efficiently delivering electricity to end users.
On the 132KVA transmission project, the Governor revealed that the contractor has been fully mobilized financially and is expected to move to site soon to commence work.
“Our ambition is that within the next two years, Plateau State will become a net seller of energy,” he said.
He added that the State Government is supporting the Nigerian Electricity Supply Company (NESCO) and investing in solar and other renewable energy projects to diversify the state’s energy mix.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Water Resources and Energy, Hon. Bashir Lawandi, described the transformer distribution as part of the administration’s comprehensive rural electrification drive. He urged benefiting communities to safeguard the facilities against vandalism.
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He noted that the transformers would improve voltage stability, reduce power interruptions, and enhance residential, commercial, and industrial activities, while also supporting water supply schemes and other essential public services.
Speaking on behalf of beneficiary communities, Da Gufwar Ishaku Audu commended the Governor for the intervention, stating that stable electricity would significantly improve livelihoods and stimulate grassroots economic activities.
Representatives of JEDC and NESCO also praised the state government’s proactive efforts to strengthen power infrastructure across Plateau State.
The event was attended by government officials, traditional rulers, stakeholders, and members of the benefiting communities.
Reporting for Zenith Media.