The Kebbi State Government has approved the release of ₦650 million for the procurement and installation of a 15MVA power transformer, a move intended to ease frequent power outages and strengthen electricity supply across the state.
The approval was announced by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Yakubu Bala Tafida, who told journalists in Birnin Kebbi that Governor Nasir Idris authorised the funding as part of broader efforts to address critical infrastructure challenges affecting residents.
“His Excellency, Governor Nasir Idris, has approved the sum of ₦650 million for the procurement and installation of a 15MVA power transformer to improve electricity supply in Kebbi State,” Tafida said. He described the decision as a response to the hardship many households and businesses face because of erratic power.
Kebbi power transformer
The 15MVA transformer is a significant piece of distribution infrastructure. Once procured and installed, it should increase local capacity, reduce load shedding and support more stable voltage for commercial and residential customers. The state government indicated it would oversee the procurement and installation process to expedite delivery.
Although the distribution of electricity is the statutory responsibility of the Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KAEDCO), the state said intervention was necessary in the overriding interest of residents. Tafida noted the move reflects the administration’s determination to improve living standards by addressing infrastructure deficits that impede daily life and economic activity.
The Kebbi government also disclosed that it provides financial support to KAEDCO. Tafida said the state contributes ₦150 million every month to strengthen service delivery and help secure a more stable and sustainable electricity supply. He urged residents to cooperate by promptly paying their electricity bills, adding that improved revenue collection will help sustain the gains the state seeks to achieve.
Public payment discipline is a central practical measure. The government argued that higher collections will enable both the utility and the state to maintain infrastructure, fund routine maintenance and reduce the recurrence of outages. The state plans to work with KAEDCO on implementation so that the new transformer and ongoing support translate into tangible improvements for customers.
Local business leaders welcomed the announcement, saying more reliable power could lower operating costs and reduce dependence on diesel generators. For many small and medium enterprises, stable electricity is critical to productivity and competitiveness. Improved supply may also encourage new investment in the state as operating conditions become more predictable.
However, stakeholders stressed the need for transparency in procurement and clear timelines for installation. Observers urged the government to publish tender details and milestones so the public can track progress and hold officials accountable. Reliable delivery will be necessary to convert the approved funding into measurable benefits for households and traders.
The Kebbi administration said procurement procedures will follow public procurement rules and that the state will coordinate closely with KAEDCO to align technical specifications and installation schedules. Residents have been asked to report outages and non-technical losses to the relevant offices to aid rapid response.
With the approved investment and continued monthly support to the distribution company, Kebbi aims to reduce the frequency of outages and strengthen the electricity network. The government expects that improved supply will ease daily life for citizens and provide a more favourable environment for economic activity across the state.
Key Takeaways:
- Kebbi State has approved ₦650 million for the procurement and installation of a 15MVA transformer to improve electricity supply.
- The state provides ₦150 million monthly support to KAEDCO while stepping in to address persistent outages.
- The Kebbi power transformer is expected to strengthen reliability for households and businesses and encourage prompt bill payment to sustain gains.
