Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani, has intensified efforts to attract investment into Nigeria’s power sector, using a major international summit in London to present the state as a viable and bankable energy market.
Speaking at the Kaduna Electric Franchise Area Energy and Investment Summit, themed “Driving Energy Investment and Regional Development,” the governor outlined his administration’s strategy to transform electricity supply through regulatory reforms, regional collaboration and private sector participation.
The summit brought together key stakeholders, including the governors of Zamfara and Kebbi states, Dauda Lawal and Nasiru Idris, respectively, as well as the Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Idris Muhammad Gobir, alongside investors, development partners and energy experts.
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Governor Sani emphasised that the recently enacted Electricity Act 2023 provides a significant opportunity for subnational governments to drive power sector reforms, but warned that policy must translate into practical outcomes.
“For Kaduna State, this is not theoretical. We are undertaking a deliberate transition from dependence on a centralised electricity system to building a structured subnational electricity market anchored on regulatory clarity and investor confidence,” he said.
He stressed the importance of regional cooperation, noting that Kaduna, Kebbi, Zamfara and Sokoto states share not only a distribution network but also closely linked economic prospects.
“Energy security in Northern Nigeria must be approached as a regional enterprise. Coordinated planning and policy alignment are critical to attracting the level of investment needed to close supply gaps and stimulate industrial growth,” he added.
The governor disclosed that discussions on the sidelines of the summit had already begun yielding positive signals, with several investors expressing interest in funding projects across the Kaduna Electric franchise area, particularly in power generation, distribution efficiency and embedded energy solutions.
As part of the outcomes of the summit, Kaduna State signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ASI Engineering Limited. The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration on sector reforms, expansion of electricity infrastructure and long-term energy security initiatives.
According to Governor Sani, the proposed investment model—structured around equity participation, demonstrates a commitment to transparency, accountability and performance-driven governance.
He also highlighted ongoing reforms in the state, including the development of a comprehensive electricity framework, the strengthening of the Kaduna Power Supply Company, and targeted investments in network infrastructure and renewable energy solutions for critical sectors.
Industry observers say Kaduna’s approach reflects a growing trend among Nigerian states seeking to leverage recent legislative changes to attract private capital and reduce reliance on the national grid.
The summit was convened by ASI Engineering Limited and Kaduna Electric, both of which were commended by participants for creating a platform to foster dialogue and partnerships at a crucial time for Nigeria’s energy transition.
