In an effort to rejuvenate Nigeria's energy sector, the Federal Government has unveiled its strategy to revamp the structure and reach of the Electricity Distribution Companies (DISCOs).
This development was made public by George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), following a three-day Ministerial Retreat at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Akume, in his address, provided an overview of the retreat's key recommendations and introduced a series of strategic initiatives under the Renewed Hope Agenda, with a strong emphasis on reforming the nation's power distribution network.
The proposed measures include the development of a 10-year plan to boost power generation capacity in alignment with the country's requirements, demonstrating a long-term vision for a more energy-sufficient Nigeria. Additionally, the plan involves the establishment of a super grid in accordance with the nation's generation targets and the creation of semi-autonomous regional grids, which would lead to a more efficient and decentralized power distribution system. Furthermore, the government plans to revive power plant projects that had been previously halted, such as the Ajaokuta Steel plant, indicating the government's dedication to revitalizing stalled energy projects.
Among other recommendations, the government aims to enhance transparency and efficiency in its operations. Key suggestions include raising the approval threshold for public procurement to promote open bidding and transparency. The government also intends to submit memos to the cabinet office well in advance of Federal Executive Council (FEC) meetings, ensuring thorough analysis before decision-making. This demonstrates the government's commitment to informed decision-making and adherence to due process.
The SGF also stressed the importance of aligning the budget for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) with the president's vision and strategic goals. This ensures that budget allocations are closely connected to national development priorities. To expedite information flow, ministers presenting memoranda at FEC meetings will be accompanied by their permanent secretaries.
Furthermore, the government plans to assess the effectiveness of previous Federal Government Intervention Programs and establish measures to expedite the prosecution of individuals, including lawmakers, who fail to complete contracts awarded to them.
The Renewed Hope Agenda, as outlined by the SGF, focuses on seven core areas with specific policies and priorities. Notably, the government is committed to reforming the economy to achieve sustained inclusive growth. This involves tariff structure reform to promote trade, support domestic production, and reduce reliance on debt financing for fiscal operations.
In terms of national security, the government intends to intensify efforts to curb revenue leakages in the police force and adopt a collaborative approach at the state level to address security challenges. The clean-up of Ogoni communities is also a priority to ensure environmental sustainability.
The government's comprehensive approach extends to agriculture, education, health, and social development. Initiatives are aimed at increasing agricultural yield through technology, preventing desert encroachment in northern Nigeria, reducing post-harvest losses, and enhancing dry-season farming. Investment in the sports sector, the acceleration of universal health coverage, and addressing humanitarian crises at the grassroots level are also part of the plan.
Lastly, improving governance and service delivery is a priority with proposals for digitization, capacity building, and performance-based compensation for civil servants.
){kind=link}
0 Comments