The Power Equipment and Electrical Machinery Development Institute (PEEMADI) has pledged to support the ongoing electricity sector reforms in Kogi State through technical assistance and human capacity development.
The commitment was made by the Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Power Equipment and Electrical Machinery Development Institute, Engr. (Dr.) Abdulsalam El-Suleiman, during a visit by officials of the Kogi State Electricity Regulatory Commission to the institute’s headquarters in Okene.
El-Suleiman explained that PEEMADI is prepared to work closely with the Kogi State Government and the electricity commission to improve engineering skills, research, innovation, and equipment development within the power sector.
According to him, collaboration among institutions is necessary to achieve lasting transformation in Nigeria’s electricity industry. He noted that the transition toward smart energy systems, renewable energy solutions, and digital electricity networks makes partnerships more important than ever.
He said Nigeria’s power sector still struggles with several major challenges, including weak infrastructure, electricity losses, inadequate metering, revenue leakages, and shortages of skilled manpower. These issues, he said, require local technological solutions and stronger institutional cooperation.
El-Suleiman stressed that PEEMADI remains committed to helping Kogi State build a modern and technology-driven electricity market that can attract investors and improve power supply for residents and businesses.
He also praised the Kogi State Electricity Regulatory Commission for seeking partnerships that can strengthen ongoing reforms and improve electricity distribution across the state.
Speaking on behalf of the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of KERC, Engr. Ibrahim Sunday Abdwaaris, the Commission’s General Manager for Market Competition and Rate, Alhaji Suleiman Isa, said the visit was aimed at deepening cooperation with important stakeholders in the electricity sector.
Isa explained that discussions during the visit focused on key areas such as electricity metering, transformer maintenance, and repairs of electrical equipment. He added that members of the delegation toured PEEMADI’s facilities to evaluate the institute’s technical capabilities and operational standards.
According to him, the commission remains focused on developing local technical capacity as part of efforts to provide reliable and affordable electricity to residents of Kogi State.
The visit also included senior officials from the commission’s engineering, monitoring, and strategy departments, reflecting the state’s growing commitment to strengthening its power sector through partnerships and innovation.
Industry observers believe collaborations between regulatory agencies and technical institutions could play an important role in addressing Nigeria’s long-standing electricity problems. Experts say investments in local research, training, and equipment maintenance are essential to reducing dependence on foreign expertise and improving the efficiency of the country’s power infrastructure.
The partnership between PEEMADI and KERC is expected to support Kogi State’s broader electricity reform agenda and create opportunities for improved service delivery, stronger technical capacity, and sustainable energy development in the state.
