Kano Firms Adopt NDPHC Power

Manufacturers in Kano State have expressed their readiness to bypass electricity distribution companies (DisCos) and instead procure power directly from the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC). The move, they say, is necessary to overcome the crippling power shortages that have long undermined industrial operations in the state.

During a recent visit to the NDPHC headquarters, a 20-member delegation from the Kano branch of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), led by the Managing Director of Dala Foods, Ali Madugu, formally requested access to NDPHC’s Eligible Customer Programme. This regulatory framework allows bulk electricity consumers to purchase power directly from generation companies, thereby reducing reliance on distribution companies.

Madugu explained that reliable electricity is critical for reviving industries, sustaining jobs, and boosting productivity in Kano, a state historically recognised as one of Nigeria’s leading industrial hubs. “Our members have both the capacity and willingness to procure power directly from NDPHC. Access to reliable electricity is critical for reviving industries and sustaining jobs in Kano State,” he said.

Responding to the request, NDPHC’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Jennifer Adighije, assured the manufacturers of the company’s commitment to supporting the industrial sector. She noted that NDPHC is prepared to supply power directly to MAN Kano members, provided regulatory approvals are secured and infrastructural capacities align.

“We are committed to partnering with the manufacturing sector to drive industrial growth, create jobs, and enhance socio-economic development. Within the provisions of the eligible customer framework, we are ready to work with MAN in Kano to make this happen,” Adighije affirmed.

She disclosed that NDPHC has recently recorded significant improvements in plant availability, positioning the company to ramp up supply and meet industrial demand. The revival of key power assets, including the Omotosho and Alaoji plants, has further strengthened NDPHC’s generation capacity.

Supporting her remarks, NDPHC’s Executive Director of Corporate Services, Commercial and Strategy, Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, and the Executive Director of Networks, Bello Babayo Bello, provided a roadmap for how MAN members could tap into NDPHC’s power supply. They emphasised that the initiative would not only strengthen manufacturing in Kano but also contribute to stabilising Nigeria’s power sector by optimising stranded electricity.

Adighije also reiterated the company’s plans to commercialise about 200 megawatts of stranded capacity out of its 2,000 megawatts by the end of 2025. She lamented the persistent “abysmally low uptake of electricity” by distribution companies, which has constrained NDPHC’s operations and left much of its capacity underutilised.

Both parties expressed optimism about forging a partnership that could unlock new opportunities for the manufacturing sector. The discussions ended on a positive note, with MAN Kano reaffirming its commitment to collaborate with NDPHC for a sustainable and reliable power supply.

The initiative, if actualised, could significantly reduce the energy burden faced by manufacturers in Kano, enhance competitiveness, and stimulate industrial revival in one of Nigeria’s key economic centres.