By John Moses
Nigeria has taken a significant step toward strengthening its energy infrastructure in the country’s northeast with the commissioning of a new 7.5MVA distribution substation in Maiduguri, aimed at improving electricity access for Borno State University and surrounding areas.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who led the inauguration, hailed the substation as a crucial element in the government’s broader ambition to achieve universal electricity access. The project was delivered by the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), under its ongoing Distribution Intervention Projects.
“This facility is part of our strategic approach to transforming the energy landscape—ensuring not only generation, but also efficient distribution to the last mile,” Shettima said, reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope power sector reforms.
The substation includes 33/11kV step-down capabilities, 3km of high-voltage lines, and over 5km of supporting distribution networks. It also features three 500KVA transformers, designed to serve educational institutions, businesses, and residential areas with consistent and quality electricity.
Jennifer Adighije, Managing Director of NDPHC, said the project underlines the company’s mandate to expand energy access in traditionally underserved regions. “Our work is not merely technical—it’s developmental. We’re improving livelihoods and laying the foundation for economic growth,” she said.
The project is expected to deliver around 6MW of power to the local grid. According to Bello Babayo, NDPHC’s Executive Director for Networks, this capacity will significantly ease pressure on existing infrastructure and support industrial and academic activities in the state.
Meanwhile, the Yola Electricity Distribution Company, which will manage the facility, thanked the federal government for its continued collaboration. “This partnership allows us to deliver real change to communities long deprived of reliable energy,” said Managing Director Abdulrahman Isa.
As insecurity, infrastructure gaps, and energy poverty continue to challenge parts of northern Nigeria, projects like this are increasingly seen as a beacon of hope—and a tangible investment in regional stability and development.
