By Suleiman Yakubu

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has inaugurated the “Bago Electrifying Niger Agenda” in Minna, aiming to overhaul 600 transformers of various capacities.
During the event, Governor Bago revealed that 60 transformers have already been overhauled. He emphasized that Niger State, home to four hydroelectric dams, cannot rely solely on the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) for transformer repairs or procurement.
Governor Bago announced that his administration has procured 200 new transformers ready for distribution to deserving communities. He highlighted that the government has settled over N1 billion in debt to AEDC and established a partnership to ensure consistent power supply for Nigerlites. He urged AEDC officials to safeguard the transformers.
The governor expressed gratitude to Atizan Concept Limited, the company responsible for the transformer overhauls, and expressed optimism that the initiative would boost socio-economic activities in the state.
Alh. Yakubu Mohammed Katamba, Director General of the Niger State Electricity Board, stated that the project aligns with the New Niger Agenda and aims to reduce the cost of procuring new transformers by about 80%, saving the state N20 billion. He added that Atizan Concept Limited has committed to training local youths in transformer repair and overhaul technology as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility.
Project Coordinator Aminu Isah Ahmadu praised the governor’s visionary leadership and commitment, noting that the transformers were repaired using high-quality materials and come with a ten-year guarantee. An Overhauling Testing Certificate will be issued for each transformer, certified by the relevant board.
Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Alh. Muhammed Bashir Lokogoma, mentioned that the state government embarked on the project in response to public demand for transformers. He disclosed that the Niger State Executive Council approved N898 million for the project and that a 10 MVA sub-station is being constructed in Lapai at a cost of N979 million to ensure efficient power supply to the area.
In their goodwill messages, AEDC Chief Business Officer Eng. Samuel Odekina and AEDC Board Member and former TCN Managing Director Engineer Abubakar Atiku Tambuwal commended the governor’s efforts to improve power supply and assured him of their continued support.

By Suleiman Yakubu

The Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abdulmalik Sarkin Daji, has expressed confidence that his local government team, Mariga, will clinch the 2024 Governor’s Cup Football Competition, currently underway in Lapai Local Government Area.
During his second visit to Lapai on Wednesday to support his constituency team, the Speaker stated that they have projected a victory for the coveted Governor’s Cup trophy. He emphasised that the team’s determination and performance have put them on the brink of achieving their goal.
Mariga’s local government team secured a 1-0 victory over Rijau, emerging first in their group with two wins and one draw. The Speaker praised their excellent performance, promising to continue his visits to motivate and cheer the team towards winning the tournament.
“We have already projected, and God willing, with their performance, you can see that we are actually getting there,” said the Speaker.
He added that he was not surprised by their win against Rijau, his best friend’s team, as he had confidently predicted the outcome. The Speaker also fulfilled his earlier pledge of ₦70,000 for each goal scored by his team and announced an increased reward of ₦100,000 for the next game.
In related news, the Chairman of Borgu Local Government Area, Hon. Suleiman Mohammed Yarima, was present when his team defeated Rafi Local Government team 1-0 to qualify for the round of 16.
Speaking to sports journalists after the game, Hon. Yarima commended his players’ commitment, noting that his presence motivated them to victory. As an ex-footballer, he promised a handsome reward for the team if they win their next match, with the ultimate goal of reaching the finals.
Hon. Yarima also revealed plans for Borgu Local Government to host the next edition of the Governor’s Cup, expressing readiness to take on the responsibility if given the mandate.