Katsina govt purchases 200 transformers to boost power supply
By Zubairu Idris
Katsina State Government says it has approved the purchase of 200 transformers for onward distribution to various communities to boost electricity supply for enhanced socio-economic activities across the state.
Dr Hafiz Ibrahim-Ahmed, the Special Adviser to Gov. Dikko Radda on Power and Energy, made the disclosure in an interview with newsmen on Thursday in Katsina.
He said presently, government had received about 179 requests for transformers across the state, apart from the ones already distributed.
“Based on these needs for the communities, there are four different sets of transformers that we are purchasing.
“One is 500 kVA, that is on the 11 kV. There is 500 kVA on the 33 kV. There’s 300 kVA on the 11 kV, and then there is 300 kVA on the 33 kV as well.
“So, if you add the total, it’s around 200 exactly, and the total cost is 1.5 million dollars, which will be a counterpart funding.
“The distribution company will pay the remaining 50 per cent in partnership, because it is actually their responsibility to buy distribution transformers.
“The state government is not just dashing that money, but there will be an increase in the shareholding of the state,” he said
According to him, among the three franchise states under the Kano Electricity Distribution Company, Katsina is the highest shareholder with 17 per cent.
“And the distribution of the transformers will add to that percentage,” he said.
The SA, therefore, urged the public to intensify efforts in safeguarding the equipment for their own benefit.
“So, it is imperative for the public to protect those assets, because it’s their own assets, procured from their own money,” he said.
“Take ownership of these electrical equipment and jealously guard them against any form of vandalism. You know, vandalism is everywhere.
“Katsina State has positioned itself as the lead among the sub-nationals following the passage of the Electricity Act 2023 into law, that has given sub-nationals the opportunity to generate, transmit and distribute electricity,” he said.
