Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
Sokoto State Government has reaffirmed its dedication to the timely completion of its Independent Power Project (IPP), a critical infrastructure aimed at boosting industrial development and job creation.
The Commissioner for Energy and Petroleum Resources, Sanusi Ibrahim Danfulani, disclosed while receiving members of Syndicate 06 of the Executive Intelligence Management Course 18 from the National Institute for Security Studies, Abuja.
The delegation visited the dormant power plant site in the state capital as part of their study tour.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ado Ibrahim, the commissioner guided the visitors around the facility, providing them with detailed information about the plant’s design, capacity, and its significant potential for driving economic growth if fully harnessed.
“This monumental project was initiated by the Magatakarda led administration to augment power supply, stimulate industrial growth, and create employment opportunities,” Danfulani stated.
He expressed regret that the project, which had reached 90% completion, was abandoned by the immediate past administration. However, he praised Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his renewed efforts to revive and operationalize the facility.
According to Danfulani, “The plant’s generator and turbine are designed to accept multiple fuel sources not just diesel which enhances its flexibility and viability.”
In their remarks, members of the visiting syndicate commended the initiative and engaged in discussions regarding its implications for regional security and economic stability.
The visit gave participants firsthand insight into the state government’s infrastructure development efforts, especially as a strategy for addressing security challenges in vulnerable areas.
Meanwhile, the Sokoto State Government has recently presented bills for the establishment of the Sokoto Electricity Market and the Sokoto Electricity Regulatory Commission to the State House of Assembly. Both bills have passed their second readings.
If enacted, these legislations are expected to revolutionize the state’s energy sector in line with the 2023 Electricity Act, which decentralized electricity generation, transmission, and distribution empowering states, private companies, and individuals to actively participate in the energy market.
