Coleman Wires and Cables Limited has urged the Nigerian government to prioritize the replacement of outdated cables that have surpassed their shelf life, a move the company believes is essential to improving the efficiency of the power distribution system.
In light of the recent power outages affecting the nation, Mr. George Onafowokan, the Managing Director of Coleman Wires and Cables, appealed to Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, to take immediate action regarding the aging infrastructure that has contributed to the frequent collapse of the national grid.
Onafowokan emphasized the critical need to upgrade the existing infrastructure, noting that many cables currently in use are no longer fit for purpose. This deterioration has resulted in repeated grid failures that have severely impacted the manufacturing sector.
He highlighted that these failures have forced manufacturers to resort to expensive alternatives, such as diesel-powered generators, significantly increasing their operational costs. “Manufacturing costs are skyrocketing due to energy costs, making it challenging for businesses to remain viable. Rising diesel prices have further compounded the problem, with many businesses struggling to keep operations running,” Onafowokan stated.
The call for infrastructure upgrades underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to enhance Nigeria’s power distribution network, ensuring reliability and sustainability for the manufacturing sector and the economy as a whole.