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Category: Energy

  • Yola DisCo Rolls Out Free Prepaid Meters to Band A Customers

    Yola DisCo Rolls Out Free Prepaid Meters to Band A Customers

    The Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) has started distributing 1,880 prepaid meters to its Band A customers as part of the Meter Asset Funds (MAF) Scheme. 

    This initiative follows the removal of electricity subsidies for Band A customers in April and aims to ensure fair billing and enhance customer service.

    Under the scheme, YEDC will install 1,500 single-phase and 380 three-phase meters at no cost to the customers.

     The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission has approved the project, which will take place from November 18 to November 30, 2024.

    The installation will be carried out by approved vendors.

    The MAF project, part of the broader Presidential Metering Initiative launched earlier in 2024, is designed to speed up the nationwide rollout of meters. 

    YEDC encouraged all Band A customers to cooperate with the installers to ensure a smooth process.

    The company remains committed to providing transparent, reliable electricity services to all its customers.

  • DisCos to halt charging customers for meter replacement

    DisCos to halt charging customers for meter replacement

    The Federal Government, through the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), has taken a firm stance against Distribution Companies (DisCos) that attempt to charge customers for replacing faulty or obsolete meters.

     This directive stems from Order No. NERC/246/2021, which outlines the responsibilities of DisCos in maintaining and replacing meters within their network.

    Under the order, DisCos are required to replace defective meters at no cost to the customer, provided the damage was not caused by the customer.

     The commission also prohibited the practice of moving customers with malfunctioning meters to estimated billing, stressing that such actions are not permissible under its regulations.

    NERC has urged affected customers to report cases where DisCos violate this order. It provided multiple channels, including phone lines and an email address, for lodging complaints. 

    The commission reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that DisCos adhere to regulatory standards and warned that any violations would attract penalties.

    This move is part of NERC’s broader effort to protect consumers and ensure that electricity providers comply with industry regulations. 

  • No plan to remove Kyari – NNPCL

    No plan to remove Kyari – NNPCL

    Contrary to speculations coming from usually informed quarters, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited says there is no plan to remove its Group Chief Executive Officer of the company, Mele Kyari.

    The spokesperson of the NNPC, Olufemi Soneye, stated this in a chat with a media organisation yesterday in Abuja.

    Following the major shakeup in the company on Wednesday, an international newspaper reported that Kyari might be compelled to vacate his office before the end of the year.

    “As the Nigerian National Petroleum Company undergoes a leadership overhaul, the group CEO Mele Kyari may be forced out before year-end.

    “Insiders tell The Africa Report that more changes will follow in the coming weeks, culminating in the removal of Kyari as CEO,” the newspaper said.

    A source was quoted to have said, “Kyari has been in the danger zone for some time. He has told confidantes of his readiness to leave. He will likely leave in the next couple of weeks.”

    However, in an interview with Punch, Soneye described the report as a baseless speculation, wondering if the newspaper were Kyari’s employer.

    “One might wonder if they were the ones who hired Mele Kyari, given their apparent insight into his career plans. Such baseless speculation is not only laughable but also a testament to the lengths some will go to craft immature narratives,” Soneye said.

    Setting the record straight, Soneye explained that Kyari is performing exceptionally well in steering the energy sector towards success.

    According to him, the NNPC under his watch had transitioned from losses to profit declaration.

    He stated that the NNPC just reached a production milestone of 1.8 million barrels per day, saying this was a testimony to Kyari’s efforts as the GCEO.

    “Let’s set the record straight: GCEO Mele Kyari is performing exceptionally, steering Nigeria’s energy sector toward unprecedented success. Under his leadership, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has transitioned from years of losses to declaring profits—a historic achievement. Just yesterday (Thursday), we reached a production milestone of 1.8 million barrels per day, a testament to his unwavering commitment,” he stressed.

    The spokesman emphasised that Kyari is focused on actualising President Bola Tinubu’s vision for progress in the energy sector.

    “Mr Kyari remains focused on actualizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for progress and development in the sector, ensuring energy security for our nation. So, to address the rumour: it’s as credible as a mirage in the desert,” he added.

  • President Tinubu Approves Seplat Energy’s Acquisition Of Mobil

    President Tinubu Approves Seplat Energy’s Acquisition Of Mobil

    President Bola Tinubu has approved the acquisition of shares of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU) by Seplat Energy.

    Seplat Energy disclosed this in a statement, on Wednesday. In the statement, Seplat said it would work with all parties to bring the transaction to completion.

    The oil company thanked President Tinubu for granting and acquisition and his support.

    According to the statement, Tinubu‘s approval was communicated by the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).

    It read, “Seplat Energy Plc, is delighted to announce that the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (“NUPRC”) has confirmed that consent has been granted by the Honourable Minister of Petroleum Resources in Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, to proceed with the acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (“MPNU”) (“the Transaction”).

    “Seplat Energy sincerely thanks His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for granting this approval, and appreciates the support and diligence of the various Ministries and regulators for all the work on this Transaction.

    “The Company will now work with all parties to bring the Transaction to completion,” it stated.

    Seplat explained that further information concerning to takeover of Mobil would be made public in line with regulatory requirements after completing the transaction process.

    “Further announcements will be made as and when appropriate, in line with regulatory requirements,” it added.

  • NNPCL Signs 10-Year Gas Supply Deal with Dangote Refinery

    NNPCL Signs 10-Year Gas Supply Deal with Dangote Refinery

    After the initial squabbles, Alhaji Aliko Dangote has secured another win, signing a major contract with NNPC Gas Marketing Limited (NGML) yesterday, for the supply of gas as energy source and feedstock to his refinery.

    By last weekend, Nigerian Anchor reported the contract that was signed between Dangote Refinery and Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN).

    The agreement enables the marketers to buy fuel directly from the refinery rather than go through a middleman.

    The current contract was brokered by Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited for a gas supply deal through its subsidiary to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE. 

    This deal, finalized on Tuesday at Dangote’s Lagos office, will see NGML provide a consistent supply of natural gas to the Dangote Refinery in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, for power generation and as a feedstock.

    Signed by Barr. Justin Ezeala, Managing Director of NGML, and Aliko Dangote, President/CEO of the Dangote Group, the agreement includes a supply of 100 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCF/D). 

    Half of this supply is firm, while the remaining portion will be interruptible.

     This partnership is set to last for 10 years, with possibilities for renewal and expansion.

    NNPC’s announcement reflects the deal as a vital step in advancing Nigeria’s industrial growth and aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda to leverage the country’s gas resources. 

    It also marks a unique achievement in Nigeria’s gas distribution sector, with no capital expenditure involved, setting a precedent for future ventures.

    The agreement is poised to support the operational success of Dangote Refinery while contributing to the nation’s energy security and economic development, reinforcing NGML’s role in fulfilling NNPC’s commitment to the country’s energy goals.

  • IPMAN Partners with Dangote Refinery for Direct Product Supply

    IPMAN Partners with Dangote Refinery for Direct Product Supply

    The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has reached an agreement with Dangote Refinery to procure petroleum products directly for distribution. 

    Abubakar Garima, IPMAN’s National President, made the announcement in Abuja after a meeting with the Association’s National Working Committee.

    The partnership aims to guarantee a consistent and affordable supply of petrol, kerosene, and diesel across the country. 

    Garima shared that following discussions with Aliko Dangote and his team in Lagos, Dangote Refinery will provide IPMAN with products directly for its depots and retail outlets.

    Garima encouraged members of IPMAN to support Dangote Refinery, highlighting the benefits of using local refineries, which will create jobs and boost the nation’s foreign exchange. 

    He also expressed confidence that the partnership would lead to competitive pricing.

    Regarding the shift to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), Garima mentioned that IPMAN is preparing for the establishment of CNG refueling stations across Nigeria. 

    He emphasized the potential economic benefits of CNG and reaffirmed IPMAN’s commitment to working with the Federal Government to ensure the success of the transition.

    This partnership between IPMAN and Dangote Refinery is set to improve the efficiency and affordability of Nigeria’s petroleum sector while fostering economic growth.

  • Vandals Attack Disrupt power on Lokoja-Gwagwalada Transmission Line 

    Vandals Attack Disrupt power on Lokoja-Gwagwalada Transmission Line 

    These are very difficult times for Nigeria, as the “giant of Africa” is buffeted by a barrage of security challenges nationwide. The latest is that the Lokoja-Gwagwalada transmission line, a key component of Nigeria’s power grid, has been disrupted due to vandalism.

     Three towers along this line were targeted, resulting in damaged infrastructure and missing spans of aluminum conductors. 

    This incident affects power transmission on the main route, though power continues via an alternative circuit.

    The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) is actively working to replace the stolen conductors and address the situation.

     Rising cases of vandalism on power infrastructure are posing challenges to Nigeria’s power stability, prompting TCN to call on local communities to assist security forces in safeguarding transmission facilities.

  • EFCC Arrests Chinese Nationals, Nigerians Over Illegal Solid Minerals Export in Enugu

    EFCC Arrests Chinese Nationals, Nigerians Over Illegal Solid Minerals Export in Enugu

    In a timely move aimed stemming ongoing solid mineral heist, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Friday, announced the arrest of two Chinese nationals and Nigerians, attempting to illegally export solid minerals out of Nigeria.

    The suspects, identified as Wang Jiang, Wang Richard, Donatus Agupusi, and Michael Benneth Agu, were apprehended due to the lack of necessary export permits, as confirmed by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity at the EFCC.

    Wang Jiang was arrested at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu after security screenings uncovered suspicious stones in his luggage, believed to be solid minerals.

    Following this, further arrests were made at the EFCC’s Enugu Zonal Directorate, where Agupusi and Agu were taken into custody.

    The arrests came after a tip-off from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on November 3, 2024, regarding Jiang’s attempt to smuggle the minerals out of the country.

    Initial investigations revealed that Agupusi, the owner of Great Wall Construction Limited, had employed the other suspects, and that Jiang was attempting to ship the minerals to China for testing.

    None of the suspects were in possession of the necessary legal documentation to export the minerals.

    The EFCC has assured the public that all suspects will face legal proceedings once the investigation is concluded.

    The agency emphasized that these arrests are part of its ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining and the unauthorized exportation of Nigeria’s mineral resources.

    This follows similar previous actions by the EFCC, such as the arrest of two Chinese nationals, Yang Chao and Xiao Jiang, in Ilorin for their suspected involvement in illegal mining activities.

    The EFCC continues to prioritize the protection of Nigeria’s natural resources and the prevention of illegal exploitation.

    INTERESTING READ: STOP THE IN-FIGHTING AT FUHSO

  • Nigerian Government Reacts As Malaysia Plans To Phase Out CNG 

    Nigerian Government Reacts As Malaysia Plans To Phase Out CNG 

    The Malaysian government has announced its decision to phase out compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles by July 1, 2025, marking the end of CNG vehicle registrations. 

    The move also includes halting the sale of natural gas vehicles (NGV), which include both CNG and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)-powered vehicles. 

    Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook shared concerns over the safety risks posed by LPG cylinders, particularly in modified vehicles, which have been involved in explosions during accidents.

     These concerns have led the government to prioritize public safety, especially regarding older CNG cylinders, some of which are over 15 years old.

    In response to the announcement, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, clarified that Malaysia’s focus is more on the safety issues surrounding LPG rather than CNG itself. 

    He pointed out that while Malaysia has struggled to transition successfully away from petrol and diesel, Nigeria’s move toward CNG remains distinct due to its focus on safety and cost-effectiveness.

     Onanuga also noted that Nigeria is already developing the necessary infrastructure, including tank manufacturing, to ensure a safer and more sustainable CNG transition.

    The statement released by Onanuga on x (formerly known as Twitter) reads, “Some clarification on the plan by Malaysia to phase out CNG powered vehicles:

    “1. The Malaysian issue speaks more to the safety of LPG NOT safety of CNG. In the original report, government transport minister Anthony Loke said:

    “There are also some car owners who have modified their vehicles using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders, which are very dangerous.

    “The report also spoke about the safety of 15 year-old CNG cylinders.

    “2. NGV covers both CNG and LPG. Nigeria in its transition has adopted CNG ONLY not both because of LPG valid safety and cost concerns

    “3.Malaysia basically had an unsuccessful transition away from costly and dirtier petrol and diesel.

    “Conversion of 45,000 vehicles in 15 years (less than 0.2%) is not enviable unlike India, China, Iran and Egypt.

    “The end of 15 year CNG tank cycle means they need to replace tanks and it was easier/cheaper to scrap their program and continue with their petrol than to do so if they had not built tank manufacturing capacity which Nigeria is already developing in year one.”

  • Another Grid Collapse Hits Nigeria

    Another Grid Collapse Hits Nigeria

    Nigeria faces yet another nationwide power outage following the collapse of its national grid, marking the twelfth disruption in less than a year.

    This incident, occurring at 11:29 a.m. on November 7, is the second within a week, raising fresh concerns about the reliability of the country’s power infrastructure.

    The Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC) acknowledged the system failure, informing customers that supply disruptions are widespread.

    Efforts to restore electricity are reportedly underway, though no specific timeline has been provided.

    So far, the Transmission Company of Nigeria has not disclosed the cause of the latest grid failure.

    The recurring outages continue to impact households and businesses, with stakeholders scrambling to resolve the persistent challenges.