By Peter Omopo
September 2, 2025
The Eddah community in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State has been connected to the national electricity grid for the first time in more than four decades.
The electrification project, executed by the North South Power Company Limited (NSPCL) Foundation, was inaugurated on Tuesday as part of the company’s corporate social responsibility to host communities.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Olubunmi Peters, Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NSPCL, said the project provided Eddah with a 300 KVA sub-station to supply reliable power to residents. Peters, represented by Mr. Hassan Abdullahi, a consultant on CSR, stressed that access to sustainable energy was vital for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“Access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy is not merely a goal in itself; it is the key that unlocks the door to achieving many other SDGs,” he said, citing a UNDP report which shows that a 10 per cent increase in energy access could reduce poverty in Africa by about six per cent.
He added that the foundation would soon embark on more community projects, including a rice mill, as well as interventions in education, healthcare, and water supply.
Also speaking, Mr. Chioke Ugochukwu, Chief Operating Officer of NSPCL, said the project was aimed at restoring dignity and empowering the people.
“Today, the Eddah community is dignified through the electrification project. It brings about illumination, economic empowerment, small-scale industry, improved security, and overall happiness,” he said.
Traditional rulers and community leaders at the inauguration expressed gratitude to NSPCL, noting that electricity would boost business activities, improve security, and enhance livelihoods.
The District Head of Zumba, represented by Alhaji Garba Abara, praised the company and appealed for similar projects in neighbouring communities. The Ward Head of Eddah, Alhaji Musa Mohammed, described the development as a “dream come true” for the people.
The event was attended by members of NSPCL’s board of trustees, representatives of the Shiroro council chairman, and the Shiroro Dam Host Stakeholders Committee.
