NNPC to Diversify into Power Generation

Chinazor Megbolu

In a bid towards boosting power generation in Nigeria, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, (NNPC) is set to diversify soon.

The Group Managing Director, NNPC, Mr. Mele Kolo Kyari, made this known at the weekend and said the Corporation is set to diversify into power generation, transmission and distribution.

Speaking at the NNPC’s Special day, during the 41st Kaduna International Trade Fair, organized by the Kaduna Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, (KADCCIMA), Kyari explained that the reason to diversify was part of the measures towards ensuring stable power supply in Nigeria.

Kyari, who was represented by the Managing Director, Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC), Mr Ezekiel Osarokube, said the diversification would help to bridge the huge energy gap in the nation’s market.

“The decision to go into the power sector was hinged on the need to bridge the huge energy gap in the Nigerian market.

“The corporation is transforming from a traditional oil and gas entity into an integrated energy outfit with interest in power generation and transmission, “he said.

Kyari, however noted that the NNPC has already engaged in development of renewable energy to overtime create a low-carbon economy and link the Oil and Gas Sector to the Agricultural Sector.

He posited that the corporation is doing everything possible to extend gas supply to every part of the country through the construction of the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline.

“Construction work on the AKK Pipeline which is designed to move gas to power industries in the Northern corridor is billed to commence in the second quarter of this year, “Kyari said.