Nigeria has commended the United States power initiative codenamed Power Africa Initiative with focus on the country.
The commendation was handed down yesterday in Abuja by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power, Amb. Godknows Igali,when he presided over a meeting between the Ministry and the American delegation, led by Deputy-Assistant Secretary, Mathew Murray.
He described the initiative as unique in design because it not only ensure rapid socio economic development on the continent but would also assist countries to access finance required for investment purposes.
He said the focus on the power sector would open up window of opportunities for Nigeria’s private sector to further consolidate on the gains recorded following the recent transfer of ownership of Discos and Gencos to the private sector.
He said the “irrevocable on-going privatization” of the power sector was informed by the philosophy of President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.
He said the administration believes that private concerns should take a lead in the power sector in doing business and providing quality services to the Nigerian people.
He said the Ministry will key-in into the proposed visit of the American Secretary of Commerce, Penny Pritzker, who expected to lead a delegation of American Business men and women, Exim Bank, other financial institutions, Equity Companies and Oil Gas Companies to Nigeria.
Igali said he was hopeful that Nigeria would take full advantage of the week long meeting.
He identified key areas of interest to the power sector to include Metering, Generation, Distribution and Transmission, development of soft wares to help tackle problems experienced in the electricity value chain especially fight against pipe-line vandalism.
“Nigeria is well endowed with Gas, hence, we are excited that Oil and Gas Companies are part of the American delegation, we are hopeful of a rewarding visit, as it will benefit both Nigerians and Americans,” he said.
Earlier, Mathew Murray had informed that the proposed American Trade Mission was scheduled for May 2014.
He said in addition to the large number of business men and financial experts, 12 other different US Departments were expected to be part of the delegation.
Under the aegis of Power Africa, Murray said President Barack Obama intends to use this platform to align the initiative with the practical needs of countries identified to benefit from it.
He added that American government was determined to ensure on track implementation.
