Residents of Rigasa in Kaduna State may see improvements in electricity supply following the commencement of a new substation project designed to strengthen power distribution in the community, where electricity shortages have reportedly persisted for about 15 years.
The initiative was facilitated by the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Ideological Group (BAT-IG), with the Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC) working alongside the Kaduna State Government to deliver the project. The infrastructure comprises a 7.5MVA, 33/11kV injection substation, a two-kilometre 11kV distribution line and a 1.5-kilometre 33kV line.
Friday’s groundbreaking ceremony was performed by Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Balarabe, who represented Governor Uba Sani at the event.
Addressing participants, Balarabe highlighted the role of reliable electricity in supporting commercial activities, increasing productivity and reducing the difficulties households face. She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to infrastructure development through strategic partnerships.
Beyond addressing electricity shortages, the facility is expected to expand the capacity of the local distribution network, improving access for homes, commercial establishments and other consumers across the densely populated community.
Explaining the motivation behind the intervention, BAT-IG Convener Bamidele Atoyebi said the group acted on concerns brought forward by residents. He described the project as part of its commitment to turning public engagement into practical solutions.
“When you identify a problem, you do not simply talk about it; you find a solution to it,” Atoyebi said.
He further revealed that BAT-IG had facilitated over 100 interventions across different sectors. According to him, the group prioritises collective action and the mobilisation of resources to tackle challenges rather than limiting its efforts to public complaints.
“Where there is a problem, we can help solve it. We will not merely complain about it. We will organise, mobilise and act,” he said.
Atoyebi also pointed to the broader impact the Rigasa project could have, identifying improved business prospects, increased economic opportunities, better security and enhanced livelihoods among its anticipated benefits.
He linked the initiative to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing its approach as “the politics of service” and “the politics of solution”.
Representing NDPHC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Engr Jennifer Adighije, at the ceremony was the company’s Executive Director, Networks, Engr Bello Babayo Bello.
The gathering also featured NDPHC Executive Director, Strategy and Commercial, Patrick Obahiagbon, and Rigasa District Head, Arc Mohammed Idris.
Also in attendance were the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who is BAT-IG’s Grand Patron, and Senator Abu Ibrahim.
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