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Powering Nigeria’s Future: NNPC’s GIPP Project Sets Stage for Nigeria’s Power Generation, Industrialisation

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Mele Kyari with President Tinubu laying the foundation

 

 

As the sun rose over Gwagwalada, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, the air was thick with anticipation and hope. A ground-breaking ceremony took place that would mark a historic milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards energy independence and economic growth.

The Gwagwalada Independent Power Project (GIPP), a visionary endeavour led by the Nigerian government and the NNPC Limited, was set to revolutionize the nation’s energy sector and transform lives.

The GIPP, an ambitious 1,350MW Combined Cycle Power Plant, will be situated on 54.7 hectares of land in Gwagwalada, within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Its establishment was necessitated by the pressing need for additional power generation capacity in Nigeria.

 

The project will receive gas supply through the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline, currently in advanced stages of construction.

The Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari, shared a detailed overview of the Gwagwalada Independent Power Project and its potential to reshape Nigeria’s energy landscape. “The Gwagwalada Independent Power Project (GIPP) is a 1,350MW Combined Cycle Power Plant with auxiliaries and Balance of Plant to be situated on 54.7 hectares of land already acquired at Gwagwalada,” Kyari explained.
The driving force behind the GIPP was the urgent need to expand power generation capacity in Nigeria. Kyari emphasized that the fuel requirements for the project would be met under a long-term Gas Sales, Purchase, and Aggregation Agreement with Shell Petroleum Development Company Joint Venture (SPDC JV).

“The GIPP project consists of three power train blocks of 450MW each,” Kyari continued, describing the impressive infrastructure that would power the plant. According to Kyari, each block featured General Electric (GE) GT13E2 gas turbine generators, heat recovery steam generators (HRSG), steam turbine electric generators, direct air-cooling condensers, and a black start diesel generator.

The GCEO observed that the projected output was nothing short of remarkable. “On completion, the GIPP Project will generate an average of 10.3 million Megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity per year, for sale to Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET),” Kyari announced. The generated power would be made available through a mix of Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) with NBET and direct sales to major off-takers, providing a stable and sustainable energy supply to homes and businesses.
In his address at the well-attended occasion, President Bola Tinubu expressed the significance of energy in the modern world, stating, “Energy is the most important discovery for humanity in the last 100 years. There is no life without power,” the President reiterated. Emphasizing his campaign commitment, he vowed to prioritize stable electricity distribution, ensuring an increase in power generation capacity and the removal of distribution bottlenecks.

The President highlighted that reliable electricity is the lifeblood of a productive and industrialized economy, vital for eradicating poverty and fostering job opportunities. “We cannot become a productive economy unless we become efficient,” he asserted, underlining the administration’s unwavering dedication to bringing about positive change.
To address the nation’s energy needs comprehensively, President Tinubu underscored the administration’s resolve to pursue a diverse range of low-carbon energy sources, including solar, hydro, thermal, and biofuel. This commitment aims to enhance both on-grade and upgraded power systems and improve the standard of living for citizens in rural communities while unlocking social and economic opportunities.

Without mincing words, the economic impact of the GIPP Project extended far beyond energy generation. From all pointers, the project would attract significant foreign and domestic investments, further driving economic growth and industrialization. In fact, experts in the power sector believe that within the first ten years, around USD 700-800 million (per year) of projected gross revenues is expected.

The ripple effect of this investment would be felt in the improvement of the national transmission system, a crucial aspect of the government’s long-term plan for transmission upgrades. Such progress would undoubtedly create an enabling environment for businesses, spur innovation and attract additional investments, ultimately leading to job creation and a boost in the nation’s standard of living.
It was therefore understandable that the excitement and enthusiasm in almost all the host communities surrounding the GIPP project in Gwagwalada were palpable. Already, the NNPC Ltd has emplaced a robust stakeholder engagement with the host communities at all levels, fostering a collaborative spirit, mutual understanding and a harmonious working relationship among all parties involved.

“The locals have been very supportive and full of excitement and expectation that the GIPP will bring about hundreds of job opportunities (direct and indirect labour) and subsequently, development and industrialization within Gwagwalada and environs,” a brochure explaining the project acknowledged.

One of the critical success factors for the GIPP Project is the quality of the partnership. Beyond just what NNPC Ltd has done, the crucial role of China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) in constructing the project under a turnkey Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract deserves commendation.
This is probably why on the eve of the historic groundbreaking, an elated Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria Cui Jianchun lauded the trilateral cooperation between China represented by CMEC, the United States represented by GE Vernova, and Nigeria as represented by the NNPC Limited. Emphasizing the positive impact the project would have on the country’s development, Mr. Jianchun said a reliable and sustainable energy systems is necessary, even as he pledged China’s unwavering support to facilitate and resolve any challenges that may arise in the course of executing the project.

Looking at all these experienced partners, there is abundant hope that the GIPP project was indeed set to benefit from the expertise and experience of leading industry players.
As the nation looks to the future, the GIPP represents more than just a power plant. It is a symbol of Nigeria’s determination to harness its vast gas resources for the benefit of its people. By supporting the government’s aspiration of domestic utilization of gas resources and bolstering the gas-to-power infrastructure drive, the GIPP will serve as a catalyst for growth and development.

As President Tinubu eloquently stated, “We can not become a productive economy unless we become efficient.” The GIPP project is Nigeria’s beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a brighter, more prosperous, and sustainable future for all its citizens.

This transformative project not only reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to bolstering its power generation capacity but also aligns with the government’s aspiration to utilize the country’s abundant gas resources for domestic energy consumption. The GIPP’s fuel requirements will be met through a long-term Gas Sales, Purchase, and Aggregation Agreement with the Shell Petroleum Development Company Joint Venture (SPDC JV), a veteran of the oil and gas business.

For now, the Gwagwalada community eagerly anticipates the manifold benefits which the GIPP project will bring. Local stakeholders have already engaged in robust discussions with NNPC Ltd., expressing excitement and hope for industrialization, development, and job opportunities in the area.

The GIPP’s impact will be felt far beyond the rocky and humid terrains of Gwagwalada. The effect will be felt nationwide, as the project holds the key to energizing Nigeria’s industries, spurring economic growth, and improving the lives of its citizens. The Power Project stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of NNPC Ltd. and the Nigerian government to provide energy solutions for today and tomorrow.

By focusing on diversifying energy sources and bolstering power generation capacity, the NNPC Ltd takes a decisive stride towards fulfilling its mandate of making energy available and affordable in a sustainable manner. Nigerians can’t wait for the lights to be fully switched on in Gwagwalada and beyond.

Abel Madaki, a power sector analyst, wrote in from Lagos.

Opinion

Why They Are Afraid Of Ganduje

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Governor Ganduje

 

By Abubakar Umar

While preparing to pen this write up I just scrolled the news and read that the Kano High court that ordered the suspension of the APC National chairman Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje have vacated the order pending the determination of the suit on 30th April.

 

From the look of things and with his glowing political clout since he joined politics in the second Republic Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje the former Governor of Kano state is giving sleepless nights to many politicians particularly from his home state of Kano where the melting pot of Nigerian politics emanated from.

No vex his emergence as the National chairman of Nigerias ruling party has brought down the evil machinations of some politicians who sees Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as a stumbling block to their political ambition at the national stage .

The administrator cum politician as many people will attest to knew very well that interms of experience and political calculations he has no match especially from the North West political zone where the National chairman hails from .

They know very well that the national working committee of the party and President Asiwaju Bola Ahmad Tinubu have done the right calculation by placing an elder politician and a two term Governor of the most difficult state to Govern in the whole Nigeria as the chairman of the Nigerian ruling party.

They knew very well that his stature has made him one of the most visible and hardworking APC National chairman since its formation in the year 2013.

The conscripted script being played by agents of destabilzation in order to make the ruling party irrelevant can only be done if they try to use some political zealots with the aim of making the National Chairman look like someone who can not sail through their evil conspiracy .

It was understood that the only way the NNPP Governent in Kano will change it’s political nest is to cut down the tree that is supposed to give it a shade but instead of humbling themselves and submit themselves to the party’s National Secretariat in which Dr. Ganduje is the leader they starte beating about the bush like a child’s play.

Dr.Ganduje had since humbled them politically and by visiting the state on January 25 ,2024 to invite them to the ruling party without vengeance .

He extended the hand of friendship that politics is is the ability to make sacrifices and compromise .

It was that compromise and sacrifice that made some of his political foes make accomplishments they never dream to achieve but still they are not grateful with the his sacrifice and patience .

Today the courts have vindicated by Dr.Abdullahi Umar and the APC national stalwarts across the country who are comfortable with the leadership style of Dr.Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

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Opinion

Celebrating Emir Sulu -Gambari at 84

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Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu Gambari ,Emir Of Ilorin

 

By AbdurRaheem Sa’ad Dembo

Today the highly revered Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu -Gambari CFR marks 84 years birthday.The former Jurist ascended the throne of his forefathers on Monday and he was also born on Monday. What a coincidence!

Being alive up to the age of 84 is a rare opportunity for anyone who really appreciate the homongous favour of the Almighty.The Chancellor of Bayero University Kano is an example of an Emir with a digital disposition and inclination.He believes so much in the progress of individuals and the entire Ilorin Emirate.

Dwelling so much about his career as a retired Justice of Court of Appeal may not be necessary as many are aware of it.The Emir stands out as a man who had made Ilorin as a City to move away from the old ways of doing things even in terms of education. He has encouraged scholarship in all ramifications. Be it in Islamic perspective and western education. Emir Sulu Gambari is the first University graduate to have ascended the throne in more two centuries of Ilorin Emirate history .

Before his ascension to the throne of his progenitors, Ilorin had a handful of professors but today they’re as many as possible.He has achieved a lot but you know traditionally such may not be made public.

Mai Martaba has provided purposeful and impactful leadership, this can be captured in the words of Abubakar Imam, the National Secretary of Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union IEDPU thus:

“The Emir has always taken care of the welfare and wellbeing of the ordinary people of his Emirate in words and actions. For instance, he initiated a Fund through which money was raised to address the immediate needs of the downtrodden people and residents of the community. The Fund was chaired by the Danmansani of Ilorin, Engr Sulaiman Ayinde Yahaya Alapansanpa, FNSE, while the immediate past National President of IEDPU, Alhaji Aliyu Otta Uthman, fsi, was the Alternate Chairman. Over 15,000 individuals from all the nooks and crannies of Ilorin Emirate benefited from the Fund during the course of the perilous COVID-19 epidemic, which rocked the humanity about five years ago. It will also be recalled that the Emir purchased 400 bundles of corrugated iron sheet, which was distributed to the less privileged members of the community who were affected by a devastating rainstorm in 2021. The then IEDPU President was given the task of getting the item delivered at the footsteps of the victims of the natural disaster”

Before the coming of Emir of Ilorin, University of Ilorin was not a place an Ilorin indigene can gain admission into easily.In fact, only few had opportunity to school there at that time.But Emir Sulu -Gambari and other stakeholders ensured that an indigenous Vice Chancellor was giving opportunity to lead the Ivory tower for the first time,in person of Professor Shuaib Oba Abdulraheem, the Talba of Ilorin Emirate .May Allah continue to grant Professor good health and plenty baraka. Professor Oba cannot even mention all those he has assisted, because the numbers are huge.

Today, there is fairness in the issue of admission into university of Ilorin.The standard was established by the administration of Professor Shuaib Oba Abdulraheem and has been sustained by his successors.

Eminent sons and daughters of Ilorin Emirate are already sending their warmest messages to the Emir.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has rejoiced with the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of Kwara state traditional rulers Council

The Emir, according to the Governor, “has remained a father to all while also deploying his rich experiences and networks to support not just the people of the Ilorin Emirate but also the people of the state as a whole.

The Governor prays to Allaah to give His Royal Highness good health and long life, and continue to uphold him upon goodness in his service to the people of the Emirate”

The Turaki of Ilorin Emirate and Senator representing Kwara Central senatorial district, Senator Saliu Mustapha has also congratulated the His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, on the occasion of his 84th birthday anniversary

Senator Mustapha described the revered Emir who is a retired eminent jurist as “an ambassador of peace with an admirable style of leadership”

He affirmed that since the respected monarch’s ascension to the throne of his forefathers in 1995 as the 11th Emir of Ilorin, he has brought a lot of development and glamour to the entire State.

While extolling the emir’s humility and modernized vision for his domain and the country at large, Senator Mustapha prays God Almighty to grant the royal father more years of worthy service to his people and humanity in good health.

Furthermore,Honourable Mukhtar Tolani Shagaya representing Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency also greeted the Emir “His Royal Highness has exemplified wisdom, compassion, and integrity throughout his reign, serving as a beacon of hope for the people of Ilorin and beyond. His visionary leadership has brought about tremendous growth and development, with a keen focus on fostering unity and inclusivity amongst his subjects. His unwavering dedication to our collective well-being is a testament to his selflessness and genuine concern for his people”

Under his guidance, Ilorin has witnessed a remarkable transformation, with strides made in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and socio-economic development. His Royal Highness’s commitment to fostering a harmonious and prosperous society has played a pivotal role in shaping the Ilorin of today – a thriving community that takes pride in its rich cultural heritage while embracing the promise of a brighter future”

Similarly, A former Member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abdulwahab Oladimeji Issa has felicitated the Emir of Ilorin.He extolled the Emir thus,”his uncommon leadership qualities” and prayed that God grants him many more years of service to the people of Ilorin emirate and Nigeria.

“As you mark your 84th birthday anniversary which comes up today Monday, April 22nd, 2024, I write, on behalf of my family to extend warm felicitations to Your Highness.

“Only recently, you marked twenty-eight years of unquantified success on the throne as the Emir of Ilorin. Your uncommon leadership qualities and evident faith in the peace, unity, progress, and prosperity of the Ilorin emirate and beyond, have combined to make you one of the most highly respected monarchs in Nigeria today.

“As you continue to use your exalted throne to build bridges of friendship and harmony across Kwara state and the nation, it is my prayer that Almighty Allah grants you many more years of abounding health, prosperity, and enduring fulfillment,” he added.

Hajiya Arinola Lawal also felicitates Emir of Ilorin on 84th birthday anniversary,
“I extend my warmest wishes and heartfelt prayers to His Royal Highness, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, the Emir of Ilorin, on the occasion of his birthday

I beseech Allah to grant His Royal Highness a long and prosperous reign on the throne of his fathers, filled with peace, stability, and blessings for the Ilorin Emirate”

Meanwhile, LT Col Ramat Suleiman also joined the league of prominent Ilorin Emirate sons and daughters to celebrate the Emir Sulu -Gambari at 84.She described the Emir as a father to all and a lover of peace.The first Ilorin Emirate woman to have attained the rank of LT Col in the military extolled the Emir as a leader with great vision and prayed to Allah to grant him good health and more years ahead on the throne of his forefathers.

Professor Shuaib Oba Abdulraheem,Senator Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe, Honourable Moshood Mustapha,Former Senate President, Abubakar Bukola Saraki, Hajiya Tundun Alanamu, Barrister Oba Magaji and others have also greeted the Emir at 84.

By way of conclusion,without mincing words Ilorin Emirate has witnessed tremendous transformation under the leadership of Emir Sulu -Gambari in all facets of the Emirate since his ascension in 1995.I wish the Emir a prosperous, healthy and pious 84th birthday anniversary and more years ahead Insha Allah.

Sheeeehuuuu.Walahu ya’simuka minna nas

abdurraheemsaaddembo@gmail.com

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Opinion

For Adamu A Zango:Simple Solution To Your Compounded Problems

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Adam A Zango

 

Tijjani Muhammad Musa

I usually don’t like writing on celebrities except if the issue borders on religious matters. Even so, it’s not any trivial matter that makes my ink flow. For me, talking to stars is like calling on someone who has taken a turn.

But once in a while, I do make an exception when it comes to situations that need prompt intervention towards saving a soul that’s heading to the edge of the abyss. I have succeeded on one or two cases though. AlhamdulilLaah

And lately, with so much misfortunes befalling guys in the Arewa entertainment industry, most especially Kannywood, one can’t help but smell the unpleasant stench in the air, and thus whiff the hand to ward it off.

This brings us to the latest trending issue of Adamu A Zango’s depression crisis. Those concerned about him have been raising alarm on social media of an impending doom that could likely befall him if he is not counselled on time.

Well, it’s that serious. Many say he needs help urgently and beg those who can to approach him and save actor cum musical icon from himself. Those close to him should as a matter of urgency do. For us from afar, we can only submit thus:

The perfect solution to Adamu A. Zango’s problem and dilemma much as some wouldn’t want to hear it can be found in the Holy Qur’an Surah Al-Anbiya (21) verses 83-84 where Allaah SWT Says:

83. And (remember) Ayyûb (Job), when he cried to his Lord: “Verily, distress has seized me, and You are the Most Merciful of all those who show mercy.”

84. So We answered his call, and We removed the distress that was on him, and We restored his family to him (that he had lost) and the like thereof along with them as a mercy from Ourselves and a Reminder for all those who worship us.

Again relate to the same Surah Q21:87-88 which brings forth how Yunus AS was able to free himself from utter hopelessness into Allaah’s Grace and Mercy. Note the Promise of Allaah SWT to grant others who worship Him similar grace if they should repeat same du’a.

So Adamu, first you must prepare your mind by connecting to your Lord, sincerely seeking His Graceful intervention in your matters. How? Sincere repentance is key and subsequently seek for forgiveness for all your bad deeds.

Next abstain from all acts of disobedience to Allaah. Thereafter, perform 2 raka’at of Salah, after which you should engage in DhikrAllaah, reciting the du’a of Ayub AS in Q21:83 and Yunus AS in Q21:87

Finally, form the habit of reciting the Qur’an and listening to it on a regular basis. Always perform your 5 daily obligatory prayers in congregation and keep off anybody or anything that will constitute a distraction to your focus on your developing a close relationship with your Lord Allaah AWJ.

If you can take these few simple, but highly challenging steps and implement them in your life, it is a guarantee that you will be free from all these stresses and distresses to a life of unprecedented peace bi iznilLaah..

But as a Kannywood and Hausa music celebrity, this solution though simple as it may seem might be the most difficult thing for you to adopt. And I believe you know why. And that sadly is where the problem truly lies.

Unless one is ready to embrace a change of lifestyle from his or her norm to Allaah’s laid out norms, things in life will keep challenging their peace and tranquility of the person.

 

Hope this helps .

Tijjani Muhammad Musa is the chairman Association of Nigerian Authors Kano branch

 

*©2024 Tijjani M. M.*
All Rights Reserved

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