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.”