FEC Approves N1.7bn For Coal-Fired Power Projects

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Wednesday in Abuja approved N1.7billion for the development of feasibility reports and detailed engineering designs for coal-fired power plants in Enugu and Benue/Kogi/Gombe axis.

Minister of Information and Communications Labaran Maku stated this while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the FEC meeting presided over by President Goodluck Jonathan.

He said that the approval was part of government’s deliberate efforts to boost power supply in the country.

According to him, one of the key goals of government in the current development effort of the power sector is the enhancement of security of supply of electricity through the diversification of the fuel mix.

“In view of this, Council ratified the President’s anticipatory approval for the award of contract for the provision of consultancy service for feasibility studies, detailed engineering design and drafting of contract documents for the development and construction of a coal-fired power plant in Enugu axis.

“Council also ratified the president’s anticipatory approval for the award of contract for the provision of consultancy service for feasibility studies, detailed engineering design and drafting of contract document for the development and construction of coal-fired power plants in Benue/Kogi/Gombe axis,” he explained.

The minister also said that the Council approved $3.9 million for the engineering design and preparation of tender document for the 40 MW Itisi Multipurpose dam project in Kaduna State.

He stated that the project would generate 40 MW of electric power and provide potable drinking water as well as land for irrigation.

He explained that the Council approved various power contracts for the Niger Delta Power Holding Company Ltd.

Maku stated that the Council also approved the establishment of a Model Skills Training Centre in Abuja by the Industrial Training Fund (ITF).

He said the centre is to train youths in identified trades like welding and fabrication, mechatronics, electrical/electronics, information and communication technology, ICT, Culinary skills (Hotel catering), plumbing, refrigeration and air conditioning.

The minister added that the ITE Education Services of Singapore would handle the consultancy services of the project at a cost of  $4.6million.