Niger State Ends AEDC Monopoly with Solar Power Initiative

Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago announced the state's initiative to break the monopoly of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) by moving 180 communities out of the national grid. This initiative, part of a domesticated law, aims to create a new distribution company to compete with AEDC in the electricity supply industry.

The state government has already begun implementing alternative power sources, particularly focusing on renewable energy through solar mini-grids. As a result, communities that have not received electricity for over ten years, such as Lambata Town in Gurara Local Government Area, are now benefiting from a constant supply of light.

The governor emphasized that this move will save the government significant expenditures associated with traditional power connections. The deployment of solar systems is part of a broader strategy to enhance energy efficiency and reduce costs for residents in Niger State.