Power Restored to Jigawa Communities After 16-Year Blackout

Jigawa State has reconnected more than 100 communities in Taura and Ringim Local Government Areas to the national grid, bringing an end to a prolonged blackout that lasted nearly 16 years.

The restoration was officially commissioned by Governor Umar Namadi during an event in Taura, where residents gathered to celebrate the long-awaited return of electricity According to officials, the project involved the rehabilitation of damaged power lines, installation of new transformers, and coordinated work with the Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) to stabilize supply. Many of the affected communities had been without electricity since the mid-2000s, relying heavily on petrol and diesel generators for basic needs The return of power has already begun to reshape daily life. Traders in local markets say they can now preserve perishable goods, extend business hours, and reduce operational costs. Health workers report that clinics can once again maintain cold storage for vaccines and essential medicines, strengthening immunization and emergency services. Schools in the area also expect a revival of evening classes and digital learning activities previously halted due to the outage Governor Namadi described the reconnection as a major milestone in his administration’s commitment to improving rural infrastructure. He noted that the project aligns with the state’s broader electrification strategy, which includes investments in solar mini-grids and increased collaboration with energy regulators to expand access across rural communities The Jigawa Ministry of Power and Energy has confirmed that more communities have been identified for the next phase of electrification. Officials emphasised the importance of continued maintenance, transparent metering, and protection of electrical installations to prevent future disruptions Community leaders, while applauding the achievement, urged the government and distribution company to ensure that the restored supply remains stable. Energy analysts have also called for clear service-delivery benchmarks, warning that sustaining reliable power will require consistent investment and strong oversight For many residents of Taura and Ringim, the return of electricity marks the beginning of renewed economic activity and improved quality of life after nearly two decades in darkness.