Author Archives: Newsaccessadmin

FG flags off CNG project in A’Ibom 

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The Federal Government has flagged off the construction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mother Station project which has a capacity of 10 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCF/D) in Akwa Ibom.

President Bola Tinubu conducted the groundbreaking of the project, owned by Nsik Oil and Gas Limited, on Thursday in Uquo Isi Edoho, Esit Eket Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom.

Tinubu, represented by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Mr Ekperikpe Ekpo, said the project aligned with the renewed Hope Initiative of his administration.

He said that the objective of the project was to promote cleaner and more affordable energy solutions.

He described the initiative as a game-changer which would not only boost Akwa Ibom’s economy but also significantly reduce dependence on petrol, and making gas a more accessible and cost-effective alternative.

Tinubu commended Nsik Oil and Gas for its bold investment, noting that ‘’such private-sector-led initiatives are crucial to Nigeria’s energy transition goals.’’

He said that the Federal Government had prioritised investments in the gas sector, disclosing that over N222 billion had been released into the industry while another N400 billion would also be injected in two months’ time.

He said that the Federal Government was committed to ensuring that gas remained a key driver of economic growth and energy security

The President said that when the project was completed, it would drastically lower gas prices, making it a viable alternative to petrol, which have surged to N900 per liter.

Read Also: Sanwo-Olu swears in eight Permanent Secretaries

“By the time this project is completed, people will no longer queue to buy fuel at high prices; they will have access to a cheaper, cleaner energy source.’’

He urged the state and other entrepreneurs across the country to seize the opportunity as there was need for local investors to take charge of their economic growth.

Tinubu highlighted the employment potential of the project, assuring that  it would  create jobs for Akwa Ibom youths and beyond, thereby reducing the economic hardships caused by the removal of fuel subsidies.

He commended the Oil and Gas company for choosing Esit Eket as the project location instead of its CEO’s home local government, describing it as a selfless move that would spur balanced development across the state.

He urged the host community to provide a peaceful and conducive environment to ensure that the project thrived, adding that such large-scale investments required strong local support.

“This project will transform Esit Eket into an economic destination, attracting further investments and sustainable development,” he said.

In his remarks, the Chairman/CEO of Nsik Oil and Gas Limited, Mr Nsikan Johnny, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, the Akwa Ibom State Government, and all stakeholders for their unwavering support.

He described the project as a bold step towards energy security and economic empowerment, emphasising that ‘’it aligns with President Tinubu’s vision for a  more sustainable and prosperous Nigeria.

“This project is not just about building a facility; it’s about creating opportunities, stimulating economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for our people,”

Johnny further highlighted the transformative impact the CNG Mother Station would have on various sectors, including transportation, industries, and domestic energy consumption.

Mrs Inemesit Ikot, the Chairperson of Esit Eket LGA, pledged their supports to the project but however made strong case for employment opportunities for youths to curb restiveness. (NAN)

Wike to pay medical bills of Karu accident victims

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has pledged to cover all medical expenses for the victims of Wednesday’s accident near Karu Bridge along the Abuja-Keffi Expressway.

Wike made the announcement in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Mr Lere Olayinka.

Expressing his sympathy for the victims, he described the accident as “avoidable.”

“It was painful that precious lives were lost, and vehicles were destroyed in an accident that could have been avoided,” Wike said, extending condolences to the families of the deceased.

He directed the continued treatment of those injured in the crash, further instructing Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, the Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, to ensure prompt care for the victims.

“Following my directive, Fasawe visited Asokoro District Hospital on Thursday morning and was part of the medical team that attended to the 17 casualties brought to the facility.”

She informed me that after initial stabilisation, seven were referred to the National Hospital, while six with minor injuries were treated successfully,” Wike said.

Read Also: Wike named 2024 THISDAY, Arise TV Minister of the Year

He further explained that three victims suffering from severe burns, inhalation, and crush injuries were still receiving treatment at the hospital.

”Regrettably, one of the casualties with third-degree burns passed away while undergoing resuscitation.”

Wike emphasised the need for stricter adherence to traffic regulations, particularly by heavy-duty vehicle drivers, urging them to be cautious and comply with speed limits.

He also called on the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other relevant agencies to intensify efforts to enforce traffic laws and ensure the safety of road users.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the accident occurred when a truck driver lost control near the Karu Bridge and collided with several vehicles in a traffic jam, causing a massive explosion.

The incident resulted in the deaths of 10 people and left more than 30 others injured, who are now receiving medical attention.

(NAN) 

Sanwo-Olu swears in eight Permanent Secretaries

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 Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has sworn in eight newly appointed Permanent Secretaries.

He urged them to embrace the THEMES Plus developmental agenda with vigour.

The governor gave the charge during the swearing-in ceremony held on Thursday at the Banquet Hall, Lagos House, Ikeja.

Sanwo-Olu described the new appointees as drivers of innovation, tasked with formulating policies to improve the lives of Lagos residents.

“In Lagos, we consistently promote excellence, professionalism, and a best-in-class approach in all areas of governance.

“You are policy drivers, bridging political leadership and the people. You must innovate and remain committed to the ideals of good governance.

“As you take office, embrace the development agenda with renewed energy, working towards sustainable progress and prosperity for all Lagosians,” Sanwo-Olu advised.

He reiterated that Lagos State prioritises excellence to ensure the best hands tackle social and economic challenges facing the state.

Read Also: JUST IN: Sanwo-Olu presents N3tr budget for 2025

“With your elevation comes greater responsibility and expectation. You are entrusted with public service and must lead by example at all times.

“We expect nothing less than excellence, which has earned you this position through your hard work and dedication,” the governor said.

Sanwo-Olu emphasised that governance is a collective effort, urging collaboration with colleagues and citizens for effective service delivery.

“Engage with feedback, respond constructively to criticism, and always prioritise the public good over personal interests,” he stated.

The Head of Service, Mr Bode Agoro, said the appointments aim to revitalise civil service structures for the benefit of Lagos residents.

In a vote of assurance, Mrs Aderinsola Olanrewaju thanked the governor, pledging that all appointees will work towards actualising the THEMES Plus agenda.

The new Permanent Secretaries include Mrs Abiola Idowu, Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency, and Mrs Olarewaju Adebanjo, Citizens Mediation Bureau.

Others are Mr Olarenwaju Bajulaye, Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism; Mr Also Mahmood, Ministry of Finance; Mr Wasiu Agbabiaka, Civil Service Commission.

Also sworn in were Mr Gbolahan Oki, Urban Development, Ministry of Physical Planning, and others assigned to various portfolios.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that with this batch, Sanwo-Olu has sworn in 111 permanent secretaries — the highest in the state’s history. 

(NAN)

N77,000 allowance to commence in March, says NYSC DG

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The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, has assured that the payment of the newly increased monthly allowance of N77,000 to corps members will begin in March.

This is contained in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday by the Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Caroline Embu.

Nafiu made the announcement while interacting with corps members at the NYSC Zonal Offices in Wuse and Garki, Federal Capital Territory.

He assured the corps members that both the scheme and the Federal Government were committed to their welfare and would continue prioritising their well-being.

Read Also: TIPS for corps members: NYSC releases call up letters for Batch B Stream II

“With effect from March, you are going to receive the sum of Seventy-Seven Thousand Naira as your monthly allowance.

“NYSC is good at record-keeping, and I can assure you that your money will be paid. The nation and the scheme appreciate you,” Nafiu said.

He thanked the corps members for their selfless service and encouraged them to remain calm, dedicated, focused, and disciplined.

Nafiu also emphasised the significance of the NYSC scheme, stating that it was an initiative that built bridges and exposed graduates to cultural values beyond their places of birth.

The Director-General further stated that the NYSC management would continue to instill virtues such as patriotism, discipline, self-restraint, good morals, leadership qualities, and teamwork in future batches.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Federal Government approved the increase in corps members’ monthly allowance to N77,000 in September 2024, with the new allowance taking effect from July 2024.

Prior to this increase, corps members received a monthly allowance of N33,000. The raise aligns with the enactment of the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024.(NAN)

Google unveils two Gemini’s new AI-powered features

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Google has introduced two groundbreaking features to its advanced AI model, Gemini: Canvas and Audio Overview. 

These innovations aim to transform the way users collaborate, create, and engage with digital content, reinforcing Gemini’s role as a powerful tool for productivity and creativity.

Dave Citron, Senior Director of Product Management for Gemini Apps, highlighted the significance of the update, stating that Gemini is evolving into an even more powerful partner for creativity and productivity. 

With Canvas and Audio Overview, users now have intuitive tools to refine their work, learn more effectively, and bring their ideas to life.

Canvas is an interactive workspace designed to streamline document and code creation. It offers real-time writing, editing, and refining capabilities, allowing users to work more efficiently with AI-driven feedback and intelligent editing suggestions. 

The feature enables seamless document refinement, allowing users to generate high-quality drafts, adjust tone and style, and export their work directly to Google Docs for enhanced collaboration. 

It also enhances the coding experience by helping developers and learners transform ideas into working prototypes for web apps, Python scripts, and more. 

The platform supports HTML and React previews, enabling seamless iterative development. Canvas is now available to Gemini and Gemini Advanced subscribers in all supported languages.

Audio Overview introduces a revolutionary way to consume information by converting documents, slides, and research reports into AI-generated, podcast-style discussions. 

It generates conversations between AI hosts who summarize, analyze, and provide unique insights on uploaded content. This feature enhances accessibility by catering to multitasking professionals and students, allowing them to absorb complex information effortlessly via the web or the Gemini mobile app. 

Currently available in English for Gemini and Gemini Advanced subscribers, additional language support is expected soon.

Read Also: Google launches first cloud region in Africa, accelerating digital transformation

Google’s latest enhancements to Gemini reinforce its commitment to advancing AI-driven collaboration and content engagement. 

With Canvas and Audio Overview, users can work smarter, refine content more efficiently, and consume information in a more interactive and engaging way.

As Citron noted, there has been tremendous excitement around Audio Overview in NotebookLM, and Google is thrilled to bring this innovative feature to Gemini. 

The technology transforms how people engage with complex information, making learning more accessible and enjoyable.

These updates expand Gemini’s capabilities in AI-powered productivity. Canvas provides real-time collaboration and intelligent editing for documents and code, while Audio Overview delivers AI-generated podcast-style discussions for content summarization. 

By streamlining workflows for content creation, coding, and learning, Google continues to push the boundaries of AI-driven creativity and efficiency. Canvas is available in all languages, while Audio Overview is launching in English first, with more languages to follow.

With these updates, Gemini continues to evolve as a leading AI tool for creativity and efficiency. Users can explore these new features at gemini.google.com.

Google launches first cloud region in Africa, accelerating digital transformation

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Google Cloud has officially celebrated the launch of its first African cloud region in Johannesburg, marking a major step in the company’s $1 billion commitment to accelerating Africa’s digital transformation.

Having been operational since January 2024, the Johannesburg cloud region provides businesses and organizations with advanced AI, machine learning, and data analytics tools, enhancing operational efficiency and driving innovation across various sectors. The initiative aims to empower African enterprises and multinational corporations by offering improved security solutions and fostering economic growth.

The Johannesburg cloud region is part of Google’s broader investment in Africa’s digital infrastructure. In May 2024, Google Cloud unveiled Umoja, a new fiber optic cable connecting Kenya to Australia. Along with the Equiano cable and the newly launched cloud region, these projects form Africa Connect, a strategic initiative designed to enhance network speed, reliability, and affordability across the continent.

Speaking at the launch, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa lauded the development, stating, “The Google Cloud region in Johannesburg is a valuable investment in South Africa, fostering innovation across our economy. Google’s growing presence will benefit the people of South Africa and the rest of Africa by allowing firms and entrepreneurs to access the powerful potential of AI, transforming nearly every part of the economy.”

Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Google’s commitment to Africa’s digital future. “By bringing cutting-edge cloud and AI technologies closer to the businesses and developers fueling the local economy, we hope to accelerate African innovation and drive sustainable growth,” he said.

The launch event at Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg featured keynote speeches from industry and government leaders, including Tara Brady, President of Google Cloud for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa; Alex Okosi, Managing Director of Google Sub-Saharan Africa; and South Africa’s Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi. The event included business and technical discussions, a partner expo, and live demonstrations of Google Cloud’s capabilities.

Premier sponsors of the event included Accenture, ADG, Deimos, Deloitte, Digicloud, and Liquid C2, alongside over 20 exhibitors. Attendees also heard customer success stories from prominent organizations such as 4G Capital, FNB, Government of Benin, Healthbridge, Jaguar Land Rover, Moniepoint, Openserve, Pepkor, Salus, Smollan, Syft, Travelstart, and Vodacom.

Read Also: Google axes pledge not to use AI for weapons

Google Cloud has been instrumental in equipping Africans with critical digital skills through training programs such as Cloud OnBoard, Cloud Hero, and Google Hustle Academy. Since 2022, the Hustle Academy has trained over 15,000 small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa, with the 2025 edition set to focus on AI-powered business training.

The company is also fostering Africa’s startup ecosystem through initiatives like Google for Startups Accelerator Africa. Over 260 startups across 17 African countries have benefited from this program, collectively raising more than $600 million in follow-on funding. These startups have seen a 31% increase in employment and a 25% rise in monthly recurring revenue.

A recent Public First digital impact study highlighted the economic benefits of Google’s digital investments in Africa. In 2023 alone, Google Cloud, along with Google Search, Google Play, YouTube, and Google advertising tools, contributed $16 billion in additional economic activity across Sub-Saharan Africa. The report predicts that for every $1 invested in digital technology in the region, over $2 in economic value will be generated by 2030, with even higher returns in leading nations.

As Google Cloud continues to expand its presence on the continent, the Johannesburg cloud region is expected to serve as a cornerstone for Africa’s digital revolution, bridging the digital divide and driving long-term economic growth.

BREAKING: Jandor returns to APC

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The 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State, Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has officially returned to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Jandor, who resigned from the PDP along with his Lagos4Lagos Movement, made the announcement during a press conference in Ikeja, Lagos.

He stated that his return to APC was not for personal gain but a reflection of his commitment to the development of Lagos.

Lastweek, while reacting to Jandor’s exit from PDP and his claims of anti-party activities within the PDP, party chieftain Chief Olabode George dismissed the accusations as “an insult” and downplayed Jandor’s political influence.

Speaking on Eagle 102.5 FM’s Frontline program, George ridiculed Jandor’s political standing, calling him “a little rat” who had no real impact in Lagos politics.

“I am in my 80s, and he is just a child. What does he know about this party? It is an absolute insult for me to even respond to him. This boy—my children are much older than him. Back in my school days, we called this an infradig—beneath my dignity,” George said.

He further criticized Jandor’s emergence as the PDP’s governorship candidate, saying he lacked experience and only got the ticket due to external influence. According to George, Jandor’s selection pushed out more qualified candidates, including Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, who later joined the Labour Party.

“We had a candidate who was far more competent, well-educated, and from a highly respected background—someone with a degree from MIT. He contested in the Lagos West Senatorial District, which alone covers 10 local governments. But we asked him to step down, and instead, Jandor was chosen,” George explained.

He also criticized Jandor’s decision to pick actress Funke Akindele as his running mate, suggesting it was a poor political strategy that further weakened the PDP’s chances in the election.

Read Also: JUST IN: Reps orders NCC to block all pornographic sites in Nigeria

Jandor’s Accusations Against PDP Leaders
Before his defection, Jandor had accused PDP leaders of sabotaging his candidacy, citing internal betrayals and anti-party activities. He alleged that party chairman Philip Aivoji falsely announced his withdrawal from the election and that Bode George openly endorsed another party’s candidate.

Jandor also claimed that some PDP leaders viewed his candidacy as a threat and actively worked against him, leading to attacks on his campaign and public condemnation from within the party.

In a cryptic remark, George hinted that Jandor had committed an “unforgivable sin” within the party—one he vowed not to disclose himself but to pass on to a certain Dr. Seye Dairo for public revelation.

While George did not specify the nature of this alleged wrongdoing, his remarks suggest that Jandor’s exit from the PDP may have deeper political implications beyond what has been publicly revealed.

With Jandor now back in the APC, the political landscape in Lagos continues to shift as parties gear up for future elections.

JUST IN: Reps orders NCC to block all pornographic sites in Nigeria

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The Nigerian House of Representatives has instructed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to ensure the restriction of access to all pornographic websites in the country.

The lawmakers further urged the Commission to mandate internet service providers to immediately block such content.

Dalhatu Tafoki, an All Progressives Congress (APC), lawmaker from Katsina State, sponsored the motion.

While presenting the motion, Tafoki highlighted that cyber pornography is an escalating global concern and argued that Nigeria has not taken sufficient steps to address it.

He emphasized that Nigeria is a “highly religious country” where major faiths oppose and prohibit nudity and obscenity.

Read Also: Full List: Reps committee proposes creation of 31 new states

Tafoki also pointed out that several nations across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East have already implemented laws banning pornography.

Citing expert warnings, the lawmaker referenced psychologists and sociologists who have cautioned about the negative effects of pornography, stating that it could contribute to adultery, prostitution, and addiction.

“Renowned psychologists and sociologists worldwide have issued stern warnings on the psychological, sociological, and mental consequences of viewing pornographic content,” he stated.

Following a voice vote conducted by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the motion was approved by the House.

As part of the resolution, the House directed the NCC to enforce penalties on service providers that fail to comply with the directive.

NIMC warns against unauthorised websites for NIN services

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The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has warned Nigerians against modifying their National Identification Number (NIN) data on unauthorised websites.

The Head, Cooperate Communications, Dr Kayode Adegoke, gave the warning in a statement on Monday.

Adegoke said that modifications to NIN data could only be done on the official NIMC self-service portal.

He therefore warned that attempting to modify NIN data on unauthorised websites could compromise personal information and put individuals at risk of identity theft.

Read Also: Why Nigerians must pay to obtain new national ID card – NIMC

According to him, by using the official NIMC self service portal, Nigerians can ensure that their data is secured and protected.

‘’By using the self service portal, one could also enjoy the convenience of updating their information from anywhere, at any time.

“NIMC, therefore, advises Nigerians to use only the official portal for all NIN modification needs and to avoid unauthorised websites to prevent any potential risks,” he said.
(NAN)

Nigerians decry low net surfing amid telecom tariff hike

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Net suffers have expressed concern over sharp decline in web browsing occasioned by the telecom tariff hikes in the country. 

The users including students, traders and business operators, who spoke in Bauchi and Gombe, decried frequent call drops, poor connectivity and low data speed since the introduction of the new telecom tarrifs.

They said the trend added a burden on their strained finances and exposed them to losses. 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), recently approved a 50 per cent rise in telecom tariffs for mobile telecommunication service providers.

The increase applied to the average cost of calls and data usage. 

NCC said the measure would support operators to invest in infrastructure and innovations in line with ongoing industry reforms. 

According to the new tariff regime, 1.5GB monthly plan is up to N1,500 from N1,000; 15GB will cost N6,500 as against its old price of N4,500 while  20GB plan costs N7,500 as against N5,500.

Also, 1.5 terabyte 90-day plan shot up to N240,000 from N150,000; and 600GB 90-day plan increased from N75,000 to N120,000 

While the voice call tariff increased from N11 to N16 per minute, representing about 45 per cent rise.  

Some of the consumers decried poor quality services by the telecom providers  in spite of the tariff hike.

Akanji Adeyemi, a journalist in Bauchi, said the telecom tariff hike has made his work more challenging as it relied on data and airtime.

He said that mobile communication was now a necessity rather than a luxury, which required proactive technical and financial measures to make it affordable and accessible to the users.

“I use data to write reports, monitor events and conduct research daily. Previously, 1-GB cost N350 as against N800.

“And it barely lasts for ew hours when doing serious work. Journalists are now spending up to N10,000 monthly on data alone,” he said.

Charles Agwan, an activist, expressed concern over the short duration of airtime, as it easily ran out while making verification calls.

“As a journalist, I need to call sources to confirm facts. If I recharge N1,000, it will be exhausted within a few minutes, and I often have to call multiple sources in a day. The cost is becoming unbearable,” he said.

However, Ismail Raji, a poultry farmer, said the tariff hike did not affect him significantly.

“I make my money, so the tariff hike hasn’t changed how often I make calls. But the government should step in to help those who are struggling,” he said.

Read Also: FULL LIST: Telcos to disconnect Nine banks USSD codes January 27

Also, David Adenuga, advised consumers to accept the tariff hike in view of the high cost of operating telecom services and economic realities in the country. 

He also called for user friendly policies to enhance telecom operations in the country. 

“All networks have increased their charges, so there’s no way to escape it. I’ve had to cut down on my internet usage and call time just to manage the costs,” he said.

Similarly; Rebecca Mu’azu and Najib Sani, said the tariff hike was causing heavy drain in their pockets as they now spent more on data and airtime. 

Sani said the situation forced him to reduce his call time or data usage to enable him to stay online.

“I used to spend N8,000 on data monthly, but with the new tariff, I spend N5,000 weekly, and about N20,000 monthly,” he said.

On his part, Attah Williams said the tariff hike has affected his social life.

“With this increase, I only make calls when absolutely necessary. I now have to think carefully before making a call,” he said

Meanwhile, some residents of Dutse in Jigawa have expressed joy over the improved power supply in the past three weeks in the area.

It will be recalled that the Federal Government had approved a new electricity tariff aimed at encouraging investment and infrastructure development in the power sector. 

The development attracted public outcry over the erratic power supply occasioned by frequent grid failure and blackouts across the country. 

Ms Safiya Muazu, a business owner in Dutse, alleged that the prepaid meter has been fraught with malfunctioning, over deductions and irregularities since the introduction of the new tariff.

“There is no light in my shop, the prepaid meter yanks off without notice as the N5,000 worth of electricity credit could barely lasts 7 days.

“People need chill drinks to quench their thirst in this weather condition, but lack of light is negatively affecting the trade.

“I’m not making a good sale, the condition is so pathetic,” she said.

Also, Aisha Abdullahi, a student, said the frequent power outage was making studying difficult.

She said that power outage often disrupted lectures during the day, and the accompanying darkness prevented students from studying during the night hours.

However, Zainab Babangida and Ahmad Abdullahi lauded the improved power supply in the area.

Abdullahi said the improved power supply had encouraged growth of trading activities and enabled the Muslim to observe the Ramadan fast in a more conducive environment. 

“We are happy over the stable power supply, it is a good development and commendable.

“With uninterrupted power supply, consumers will be happy to pay their bills because they are paying for the services rendered,”  he said.
(NAN)