BENIN CITY- Benin Monarch, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, has challenged electricity Distribution Companies (DISCOs) in Nigeria to strengthen their Research and Development (R/D) capacity in order to find a lasting solution to the problems associated with the power sector
The Oba gave the charge when the new Management of Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) in Benin City paid a courtesy visit to the Palace
Oba Ewuare II, said that the country’s electricity problem can be ameliorate if stakeholders in the industry are solution driven.
The first class traditional Ruler explained that the economic uncertainty caused by the free fall of the country’s currency (Naira) to the dollar as well as the high cost of diesel is taking a toll on businesses and manufacturing sector in Nigeria, thereby pushing citizens, especially the downtrodden to the extreme.
He said: “You have association of DISCOs in Nigeria, get them together and have conferences, retreats and find out what to do to improve the power distribution problems because it is enormous.
“We appeal to you to do your home work. If you have research and Development Department, then, engage them to do more research to find out what the problem is and find solution.
“It they cannot continue to cope with the pressure of no power supply in the country. They cannot even set up businesses or industries that rely on diesel which is very expensive and sometimes, scarce to get.
“It is the same story over and over again. It seems not to be going away. Please do your best. If you identify anything that we can do, please, do not hesitate to let us know. If you have any”.
Addressing the Benin throne earlier, the Managing Director/Chief Executive officer of BEDC, Dr. Henry Ajagbawa, explained that they were at the palace to pay respect to the Oba and solicit for prayers towards enhancing electricity distribution to the people.
Ajagbawa admitted that due to enormous challenges facing the power sector, the federal government, took some steps to reposition some the Distribution Companies including BEDC to reposition the sector through robust engagement with governments at all levels and other stakeholders in the business of electricity for improve performance.
According to him, ” Suffice to say that it is not news that we have electricity challenge in Nigeria. We believe that with collaboration, with governments and our Communities, we should be able to go further. It is a huge challenge ahead”.
