Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has called on the Federal Government to prioritize equitable energy access for all Nigerians, particularly vulnerable populations, urging that electricity should not be treated purely as a profit-driven commodity.
Speaking at the 6th National Council on Power (NACOP) summit held in Maiduguri, Governor Zulum told the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, that energy must be seen as a fundamental right and a tool for social development.
“Electricity is not just about wires and transformers, it’s about dignity, economic opportunity, health, education, and the right of every child to dream,” Zulum declared.
He urged the federal government to implement targeted subsidies to support low-income communities, while cautioning against blanket subsidies.
“We must view energy not just as a commodity but as a social service,” Zulum said. “While I do not advocate for total subsidy, I urge the Federal Government to support low-income communities with targeted assistance that protects the most vulnerable.”
Zulum praised Minister Adelabu for his responsiveness and commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for multiple interventions in Borno State’s power sector.
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He highlighted several completed and ongoing projects among which include newly completed 7.5MVA substation at the University of Maiduguri, rehabilitation of 132/33kV substations, a new substation at the College of Agriculture, Damboa, and a 1×32.5MVA transmission station in Bama.
In his remarks, Minister Adebayo Adelabu outlined the achievements of the Tinubu administration in the power sector and lauded Borno State’s commitment to collaboration.
“Let me begin by expressing our profound gratitude to His Excellency, Governor Zulum, and the good people of Borno for hosting this important gathering,” Adelabu said. “The warmth and generosity extended to delegates from across the country are deeply appreciated.”
Governor Zulum also announced that Borno State is fully aligning with the federal government’s national power sector reforms. Despite security and infrastructure challenges, he said the state has made significant progress in modernizing its energy infrastructure.
“We have expanded off-grid solutions, executed pilot projects, and partnered with the Transmission Company of Nigeria to stabilize grid infrastructure,” Zulum said.
He cited the rehabilitation of key transmission lines and completion of several 33kV feeders, alongside investments in alternative energy sources, including diesel and solar, to support essential services.
According to the governor, Borno has invested over ₦1.5 billion in electrical components, often with federal support, and has provided security and logistics to safeguard critical infrastructure.
Electrification efforts also span several remote and conflict-affected areas, according to Zulum, includes,Maiduguri-Gubio-Damasak corridor, Power extension to Konduga, Bama, and Banki, electrification of Damboa, Gwoza, Kwaya Kusar, and power reinforcement in Marte, Abadam, and Kukawa
