By Hammed Adedayo Said
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State has been given a great opportunity to improve the lives of the people of Kwara State by focusing on fixing the state’s electricity system in his second tenure. With President Muhammadu Buhari having signed the bill on State Power Independent, the state now has autonomy in the management of its electricity system thereby giving the government the power to take charge of the supply and distribution of electricity.
This new development therefore presents a great opportunity for Governor Abdulrazaq to prioritize the provision of stable electricity to the people of Kwara State. The importance of electricity cannot be overstated in today’s world, as it is an essential component of modern life. Access to electricity is essential for economic development, education, healthcare, and overall social wellbeing.
The current state of electricity in Harmony State is not encouraging, with frequent power outages and poor distribution systems. This situation has had a negative impact on the state’s economy, as business owners are relying on expensive alternatives such as generators, which has resulted in higher operating costs and reduced profitability.
To remedy the situation, the Governor should prioritize investment in the state’s electricity infrastructure, including the construction of new power stations, upgrading transmission and distribution systems, as well as investing in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. The government can also encourage private sector investment in the power sector by creating a conducive business environment and providing incentives such as tax breaks and subsidies.
In addition to investing in the infrastructure, the government needs to development of human capital in the electricity sector. This entails training and retraining of personnel, including engineers, technicians, and other professionals, to ensure that they have the required skills and knowledge to operate and maintain the state’s electricity systems.
Governor Abdulrazaq’s second tenure presents a great opportunity for him to leave a lasting legacy by fixing Kwara State’s electricity system. A reliable and consistent supply of electricity will not only improve the lives of the people of Kwara State but also attract investment, create jobs, and boost the state’s economy. With the autonomy granted by the State Power Independent bill, the Governor has the power to make a real difference in the lives of the people of Kwara State.
Furthermore, the Governor should also prioritize the implementation of policies and regulations that promote energy efficiency and conservation. This will involve the adoption of measures such as smart metering, energy-efficient lighting, and incentives for the use of energy-efficient appliances. These measures will not only reduce electricity consumption but also lead to cost savings for households and businesses.
Another key area the Governor should focus on is the expansion of access to electricity in rural areas. Rural electrification is essential for inclusive development, as it enables rural communities to engage in economic activities and access basic services such as healthcare and education. The government can achieve this by investing in off-grid and mini-grid systems that are suitable for rural areas where grid extension may not be feasible.
In conclusion, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq should use his second tenure to focus on fixing Kwara State’s electricity system. The autonomy granted by the State Power Independent bill provides a great opportunity for the government to take charge of the supply and distribution of electricity in the state. The government should prioritize investment in infrastructure, human capital development, energy efficiency, and rural electrification. By doing so, the government will not only improve the lives of the people of Kwara State but also attract investment, create jobs, and boost the state’s economy.
Hammed Adedayo Said is a Media consultant/Strategist and Political Analyst. He writes from Ilorin.
