The nation's
Under the Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, signed between the government and its German ally, the initiative was originally conceived to supply 7,000 megawatts by
But investigation by Vanguard indicated that the project is still in its pre-engineering stage, because the Federal Government, which requested for 75 per cent local content, 40 per cent automation and 60 per cent human-driven operations, is not ready financially to make the counterpart funding available.
However, the German government, through
These and other topical issues are still being discussed by the government in order to pave way for eventual commencement of the project.
'Why project is delayed'
Deputy Director, Press,
However, an impeccable source close to the project who pleaded anonymity attributed the delay mainly to the three issues as well as outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The official said: "Another major problem is the COVID-19 which has made the movement of personnel, goods and services largely impossible since
"The reality is that transformers, switch gears and lines are physical assets that require physical movement across continents and we do not have the luxury of time. The challenge is when COVID-19 will allow real movements. Yet, by means of innovative techniques and concepts, the goals will be achieved.
"No one knew that COVID-19 will swallow the entire 2020 from humanity, and we are largely in the pandemic era, with third waves appearing in many climes. Unfortunately, power system assets like transformers require a lead time of 12 to 18 months from the date of order to delivery."
The official also noted that while working towards the implementation of the project, the government was also executing some schemes, which he referred to as, 'quick wins' to improve the overall experience of consumers in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry, NESI within the next six to nine months.
However, speaking in a telephone interview with Vanguard yesterday, Corporate Communications Manager,
Commenting on the development, President, Nigeria Consumer Protection Network and member,
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