Solve power problems to boost generation, gain from AfCFTA – GenCos

The Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC) has called
on the federal government to address power problems so Nigeria can
boost electricity generation and reap gains from the signing of the
African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).

All heads of government of the African Union signed the pact
recently in Niamey, Niger Republic.

The Executive Secretary of APGC, Dr. Joy Ogaji in a statement on
Wednesday said the Generation Companies (GenCos) are confident the
AfCFTA could raise intra-Africa trade from the current 16 per cent
to about 60 per cent.

As the biggest economy in Africa, with Gross Domestic Product
(GDP) of about $400 billion, Ogaji said the new agreement clearly
presents Nigeria the potential opportunity to play a more active
role in the regional and global economy.

“The signing of the agreement is not only a welcome development,
but also a stirring indication that the Buhari administration is
ready for business,” Ogaji noted.

Given the critical role adequate power supply plays in national
development and enabling trade, she said government has a
responsibility to pay particular attention to it as the benefits of
the AfCFTA agreement to Nigeria may not be fully realised until the
problems of the power sector are fully addressed.

She said: “Resolving the power supply issue will make consumer
goods, machineries, equipment and tools flood the African/global
consumer markets. It will also bring about increased employment and
empowerment of the youth.

“Nigeria’s potential to become one of the world’s largest
economies will remain just an aspiration without the electricity
required to pursue aggressive industrialisation, including the
revitalisation of moribund local industries,” Mrs Ogaji said.

To address problems in the power sector, APGC said there was
need for apolitical environment, coordinated leadership and
enforceable regulations underpinned by best industry practices.

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President Buhari Seeks Approval of 15 Special
Advisers

President seek approval for appointment of Special Advisers
President Mohammadu Buhari today submitted to the Senate request
for the appointment of Special Advisers.

Citing section 151 of the constitution of the Federal Republic
of Nigeria 1999 as amended which confers on him the power to
appoint Special Advisers to assist him in the performance of his
functions, the President requested the kind consideration of the
distinguished Senators to appoint 15 Special Advisers.

The request is expected to be read tomorrow at plenary.

Also today at plenary, the Senate President, Senator Ahmad
Lawan, hinted at the possibility of the President sending his
ministerial list to the Senate this week. He says the executive arm
of government was working round the clock towards ensuring that the
Senate gets the ministerial list before the end of the week.

Charles Akpan
Deputy Director
The Office of Senior Special Assistant to the President on National
Assembly Matters