UK infrastructure advisory agency meets Nigerian Govt. over management of power infrastructure, concession of TCN
Oredola Adeola
The United Kingdom Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory (UKNAIF) has renewed its power sector programmes and interventions with the Nigerian government including the push for the successful concession of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), with a view to improving the delivery and management of infrastructure in the country.
The UK Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory (UKNAIF) led by the Managing Director Prof. Chidiebere Onyia made this known when they paid Engr. Abubakar Aliyu, Power Minister, a courtesy visit earlier in the week.
EnergyDay’s check showed that the advisory programme is supervised by the United Kingdom’s UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) which is a merger of the U.K. Department for International Development and the U.K. Foreign & Commonwealth Office. It kicked off in September 2020 and is expected to be concluded in 2024.
Mr. Frank Edozie in the presentation on various power sector programmes and interventions of UKNAIF, disclosed that the partnership with the Nigerian government has helped to improve the delivery and management of infrastructure.
EnergyDay gathered that the UKNIAF was initiated to enhance the management of Nigeria’s infrastructure development towards power sector reform, public-private partnerships (PPP), capital spending, and repair and maintenance of federal roads.
Edozie said the initiative is expected to result in increased economic growth, and job creation, and contribute towards the United Nations’ Global Goals by reducing poverty for the majority of the Nigerian populace.
The statement said UKNIAF consults with government ministries and agencies that plan and deliver infrastructure or develop mechanisms or transactions involving private sector financing of infrastructure.
According to UKNAIF, some of the project activities include the plan to collaborate with the government over the conclusion of Nigeria’s power sector reforms, leading to a contract-based market, privatisation of National Integrated power project plants, and a successful concession of the Transmission Company of Nigeria.
It said, ” Other sample activities will increase capacity within government to develop PPPs; improve processes for screening capital projects in line with post-COVID priorities, consideration of climate and gender and social inclusion imperatives in privately financed projects; and improve access to financing for infrastructure project preparation. “
