The Federal Government has entered into a partnership with an original
equipment manufacturer, OEM, TE Connectivity, to cut down on technical losses
in the electricity sector and boost Nigeria’s quest for the attainment of
20,000 megawatts by 2020.
The agreement which was entered into by the National Power Training
Institute of Nigeria, NAPTIN, will see experts from TE Connectivity train
NAPTIN’s facilitators and technical workers of electricity distribution
companies, DISCOs, by providing technical training on the connectivity required
to enhance power systems.
Once completed, NAPTIN and the DISCOs will organise training sessions at
its facilities for local installers.
Speaking at the launch of the partnership in Abuja, Head, TE Energy
Project in Nigeria, Mr. Ronnie Fotheringham, described the partnership with
NAPTIN as a significant step in human capacity development.
He added that this will bring proven solutions, technical know-how and
broad application experience to NAPTIN and those being trained.
He said: “As the government of Nigeria invests in upgrading and
expanding the power network, the country also needs to invest in its people –
developing the skills and expertise required to develop and maintain that
network.
“The partnership with NAPTIN is a significant step in that direction. It
furthers the mission by bringing the proven solutions, technical know-how and
broad application experience to NAPTIN and those being trained. We view this
partnership as beneficial to the Nigerian power vision and to TE, building
deeper connections throughout the country.”
He added that in the long run, the company is committed to running a hub
for West Africa from Nigeria, adding that the company is seeking local value
addition in Nigeria.
Also speaking, the Director General of NAPTIN, Mr. Reuben Okeke, said
the partnership will help the country conserve its foreign exchange reserve,
reduce technical losses in the power sector, and play a critical role in its
attainment of 20,000MW 2020.
According to him, TE Connectivity is a major producer of electricity
installations and equipment, which need to be professionally handled to get the
best value from the products.
He said: “We need professional hands in the power sector to be able to
achieve our 20,000 megawatts target. This can be achieved with the training of
electricity workers on how to use world class products, especially products of
TE Connectivity.
“We are committed to ensuring that the workforce that would handle these
products do so professionally, especially as the training would be done with
better equipment than was obtained in the past, going by ongoing advancement in
technology.”
Source: Business Vanguard-By Michael Eboh
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