Chief of Staff to the President, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, on Saturday, said the Bola Tinubu administration has been interfacing with stakeholders in the power sector towards addressing unstable power supply in the country.
Gbajabiamila, who also said the President was concerned about cases of energy theft, estimated billing and stealing of power infrastructure, urged Nigerians to protect power infrastructure in their communities rather than damage them.
Speaking during the commissioning of 2X20MVA, 33/11KV power transformer injection substation at Randle Close in Lagos, the lawmaker representing Lagos Central, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun, who represented Gbajabiamila, said: “The administration is in constant interface with the stakeholders in the power sector towards addressing the multifaceted challenges impeding the stable supply of electricity.
“Mr President has allocated over N340 billion in the 2024 budget towards improving infrastructure in the power sector. President Tinubu is also concerned about cases of energy theft, estimated billing and stealing of power infrastructure. Citizens must protect power infrastructure in their various communities as we expect the electricity distribution companies to address cases of estimated billing and poor meter distribution.
“As we always say, access to reliable electricity is not a privilege; it is a fundamental right that drives productivity, fosters innovation, and improves the quality of life for all citizens. I like that the mantra of Eko Disco resonates with that.”
Also speaking, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr Biodun Ogunleye, said: “We are working very well to ensure that in the coming years, there will be segments in this city that would say goodbye to darkness. Pay bills, don’t beat up staff, don’t bypass metres or involve in anything that would hinder their business.”
On his part, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Eko Electricity Distribution Company, Dr Dere Otubu, said: “Light brings happiness, growth, development and economic empowerment. Over the years, there have been tales of instability of power supply, but it has been resolved. For this project, the efforts of everyone from inception to completion are commendable. We urge the Surulere people to ensure that it is protected.”