By Chidiebere Ugwu
Any contractor involved in power sector projects who fails to meet expectations may leave us with no choice than to sack and replace them with more serious ones, the Executive Director of the Rural Electrification Fund in Rural Electrification Agency, Hon. Engr. Doris Uboh, has said.
Hon. Uboh, stated this during an interactive and familiarization meeting with stakeholders in the power industry, warning that the authorities in the power is poised to deal with any contractor that want to delay their set goals.
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Uboh emphasized the importance of stakeholders and contractors only undertaking projects that align with their capabilities and expertise.
The former member of the House of Representatives expressed her readiness to collaborate with local stakeholders, highlighting that external interventions have not effectively addressed the longstanding issues in the power sector.
According to her, “I am impressed with the presentations I have received and listened to so far, especially knowing that you all share my passion and belief that it will take Nigerians to make Nigeria work.
Bringing in external hands has only worsened the situation for obvious reasons. The fact that there are Nigerians like you who are willing, know the terrain, have the experience, and are ready to work to provide solutions to the issues of epileptic and inadequate power supply is commendable.
Expanding on her point, the REF Boss emphasized the widespread issues faced by Nigerians due to power instability, as well as the Federal Government’s commitment to resolving them in a timely manner.
She expressed her opinion that “The issues affecting the power sector have become a problem that impacts all Nigerians, regardless of their wealth. These issues now manifest in places that were once thought to be immune.”
“Furthermore, the Honorable Minister is deeply concerned and passionate about ensuring successful outcomes. Fortunately, young people currently play a dominant role in the industry, with many of us having exposure to international experiences through academic studies. This has allowed us to witness the success of foreign power sectors, instilling confidence that similar achievements are possible here.”
“Highlighting the importance of maintaining good conduct and honoring contractual agreements, Honourable Uboh emphasized, ‘I recently attended a workshop where I reiterated our Zero Tolerance Policy for Failed Projects.'”
“As an agency, we are committed to supporting developers facing challenges within our scope. However, stakeholders must avoid taking on more than they can handle. If necessary, we will reassign projects to more capable individuals to ensure successful outcomes. Our primary goal is to achieve results.”
“Even if you are a close relative, excessive delays on a project, as mentioned by the Minister, may lead to consequences. I will not hesitate to take action, even if it means parting ways with family members or colleagues before facing dismissal myself.
“She added, ‘Before you tarnish my reputation, I will assign the job to someone who can execute it because I am exhausted, and so is everyone else, from these recurring power complaints. It feels as if something is fundamentally wrong with us as a people, but in reality, there is nothing wrong with us.’
Among the stakeholders present at the meeting with the ED REF were Mr. Alapa Hyacinth, Mr. Oke Ogbaudu, Engr. Canice Emeka Obi, Engr. Donald Igudia, Dr. Sunday Orishedere, Ms. Laura Ogbareno Buwa-Udah, Pastor Norbert Akachukwu Sochukwudinma, and Gladys Agada.”
