US to assist Nigeria in power sector – Envoy

James Entwistle, the US Ambassador to Nigeria, says his country will assist Nigeria to increase its power generation.

Entwistle spoke on Tuesday in Abuja when he visited the Minister of Science and Technology, Ogbonannya Onu, in his office.

He said the US would assist the country through the “Power Africa Programme” to increase power generation, distribution and transmission.

He said: “We are looking for stronger role by private sector in the power industries to support Nigeria for better generation, transmission and distribution.

“We will encourage large private power companies to come and invest in Nigeria because we see the private sector as a solution to many of the energy challenges in Africa.”

The ambassador said the US was also set to collaborate with the ministry to assist in other areas to promote science, technology and innovation toward national development.

Onu expressed gratitude to the envoy for the visit and assured him of his ministry’s readiness to partner with the US Government.

He said: “USA is a largest economy in the world which is driven by pronounced innovation.

“We want partnership that will advance the science sector to diversify the economy.”

NAN.