The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Kaduna Electric, Engineer Garba Haruna, has described vandalism of power supply assets and energy theft as the biggest challenges militating against steady power supply in the Company’s franchise area.
Haruna made the assertion on Thursday in Kaduna when he paid a courtesy visit to the Commissioner of Police, Kaduna State Command, Agyole Abeh, in his office.
Haruna, who referred to the Police as “the most strategic institution in internal security”, told the Police Commissioner that the North-West Power Limited, the promoter of Kaduna Electric, made an initial investment of $168 million to acquire the electricity company and has made further investment of billions of naira to strengthen and reinforce the network after taking over.
He, however, lamented that the Company’s effort is being undermined by the menace of energy theft and vandalism.
He therefore appealed to Abeh for protection of the company’s facilities and personnel, stating that the visit was aimed at strengthening the existing relationship between the firm and the state Police Command.
“We have invested in technology, but technology alone cannot provide the much needed security to our personnel and asset. Hence, we solicit your cooperation and assistance in this regard,” the electricity boss stated.
Abeh assured the Kaduna Electric team that the Command will provide all necessary security and support to the Company’s installation and personnel.
“Power supply infrastructures are among what we call vulnerable and key points, high areas that police attaches importance to, we are always ready to provided needed security to your personnel and installation,” the police boss stated.
He also disclosed that the command’s response capability is 20 minutes within the city centre.