Plans have been finalized by the Kano Electricity Distribution Company to dedicate N1.2bn towards expanding and enhancing the network for power supply to the renowned Dawanau International Grains Market in Kano.
A statement by Sani Bala Sani, the Head of Corporate Communications at KEDCO, disclosed this information to reporters on Wednesday.
The company’s focus on expanding power generation is part of its strategic efforts to swiftly enhance power supply, particularly in crucial areas like the Dawanau International Grains Market, known to be the largest in Sub-Saharan Africa with multiple cottage industries.
Emphasizing on the importance of the Dawanau project due to the current state of its deteriorated network, which has resulted in inadequate services to the area, the company aims to revamp the situation.
According to Sani, “This hindrance has been limiting the market’s potential to act as a catalyst for the economic development of Kano state and the northern region of Nigeria.”
Acting Managing Director of the company, Abubakar Yusuf, commented on the project saying, “We have commissioned three reputable firms to oversee the construction of 35 km of 33 KV high tension (HT) line from Bichi Transmission Sub-station to Dawanau market, along with the installation of 2 Nos 500KVA 33/.415 transformers and low tension (LT) lines, all costing N1.2 billion.”
Yusuf further added, “The objective of this project is to enhance the quality and efficiency of power supply to industrial and commercial clusters within the grain market, aligning with our vision to facilitate re-industrialization and economic empowerment in our franchise states.”
The Chief Technical Officer of the company, Engr. Inuwa Daneji, remarked, “Upon the completion of this project, we anticipate a 200% surge in energy consumption and a proportional increase in revenue for KEDCO.”
Following the takeover in November 2023, the new core investor (Future Energies Africa) promptly initiated network revamp and expansion initiatives to enhance access to reliable power supply for the socio-economic development of KEDCO’s tri-state operation.
These endeavors are expected to fortify existing relationships with stakeholders, explore additional business prospects within the sector and beyond, as the investors remain unwavering in their commitment across the franchise area.