Business
NERC Boss Applauds Power Privatisation
The Chairman, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Dr. Sam Amadi says privatisation of the power sector is the best step to improve power generation in the country.
Amadi said this in Ibadan at the inauguration of NERC’s Ibadan Forum Office at Iyaganku Quarters, Ibadan.
The Chairman, who was represented by Dr Abba Armiya’u, a NERC Commissioner, said the privatisation of the sector would create more opportunities for Nigerians.
Amadi, who said a major opportunity would be in the aspect of improved services, added:
“However, the privatisation and the reform cannot work if we do not have the support of all stakeholders.
“As we have noted in the telecom sector, the mobile phone, which was once a symbol of the elites, is now available to all irrespective of your status.
“In a short while, power generation shall also improve and we therefore urge the public to assist in protecting our equipment and send in their due advice.”
Amadi said the Ibadan Forum Office, established to cater for consumers complaints, would be made up of five members who are not officials of the company.
“This is another vital step as part of our customers’ complaints mechanism. Prior to this, we have commissioned the Lagos, Abuja, Enugu, Port Harcourt and the Kano offices,” he said.
In his address, Mr Bolaji Oyesiku, the Managing Director, Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, said that the forum was an affirmation that the customer was the king.
“The old negative story about us is quietly passing away and within a year or two, the difference shall be obvious as this forum sets to handle unresolved issues,” Oyesiku said.
The building was inaugurated by Mr Olugbenga Opatunde, the Special Adviser on Infrastructures in OyoState while the plaque was unveiled by Mrs Mary Awolokun, NERC’s Commissioner for Engineering Safety and Standard.
Reports say that Mrs Eniola Oyedele, a member of the forum representing non-governmental organisations, thanked NERC for giving them the opportunity to serve.
Other members of the forum are Mr Babajide Taiwo of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and Mr Ismaila Alapa of the Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Minerals and Agriculture.
A lawyer, Mr. Oseni Wasiu from the Consumer Protection Council and Mr Morakinyo Akindiji of the Nigerian Society of Engineers are also members.