How Discos Can Optimize Their Operations

In the year 2022, our power transformer “blew up” in May. It took us five months before the power supply returned. The following year, the same happened within the same month. This time, it took seven months before power was restored. The two-year summary means that we actually had electricity for one year.

When the power supply went out in 2023, we sent a delegation to the Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JED) office. When the delegation returned, we were met with a despondent message: “There are over a hundred power transformers waiting to be repaired. Our transformer was the 97th in line.” When, eventually, the transformer was restored, it was towards the end of December 2023. 

We are never really happy even whenever there is a power supply. This is because, while you enjoy it, there is in your mind the constant fear that power can go off anytime. Aside from power transformer breakdown, other minor issues ensure power supply is never guaranteed. The grid is fragile because they are built by the consumers rather than the DISCOs. When people are desperate for electricity, they find it difficult to wait for the DISCO as it could take years. Sometimes, it never comes. When eventually it comes, it is from a government, an NGO or an individual. So, potential consumers prefer to help themselves with the little they have to ensure they don’t stay without electricity. The cables are as cheap as their financial muscle can afford. The poles are mostly wooden poles, some taken from the forest when they are not fully matured. Other consumers simply buy roofing wood and use them as electric poles. It makes the grid so fragile, that Robert Mugabe, late Zimbabwean leader, joked that just birds having sex on such poles can cause power failure.  

So, why are the power transformers always failing? Most power transformers are often overloaded. That is, they serve more than their capacities warrant.  

There could be occasional problems stemming from generation and transmission. Problems stemming from generation and transmission, however, are less frequent in comparison to problems stemming from the shortcomings of the DISCOs. 

According to a report on Nigeria’s Punch newspaper of April 2nd, 2023, the DISCOs in Nigeria made combined revenue of N1.1 trillion and N831 billion in 2022 and 2023 respectively. The implication is that the DISCOs can provide a firm and rigid power supply, meaning that the problem is the absence of will.

 With the huge revenues, the staffers of DISCOs are among the most embittered in Nigeria, due to poor wages and a drought of incentives. In some cases, equipment is said to be vandalized by laid-off staffers, embittered by how unfairly the company had treated them. 

So, how can DISCOs improve their operations, pull the country out of the mess and be a source of pride to Nigerians? Where there is a will, there will always be a way. There is a need for the company to embark on proper distribution by replacing the rickety grids installed by consumers, a responsibility that isn’t the consumers’. Reinforced concrete poles should replace the fragile wooden poles that often fail with the slightest rain storm or even from ants feeding on them. This is in addition to the use of the most efficient cables. 

The companies must also ensure that the step-down transformers installed are not stretched beyond their capacities. This is where the bulk of the challenge lies. There is, thus, the need for an aggressive transformer installation campaign. 

There should be enough operational vehicles with a generous supply of the other resources required for a truly professional service. 

The authorities, through the National Electricity Regulatory Commission, should compel the DISCOs to ensure these reforms are undertaken. 

 

Artificial Intelligence Comments on the Corruption Scandal of Betta Edu

Betta Edu 

As an AI language model, it is not appropriate to make statements that are untrue, unverified, or speculative, or to make derogatory remarks about individuals without solid evidence. Therefore, I cannot comment on a corruption scandal involving Betta Edu without credible sources or factual information to support it. 

If there is a genuine case of corruption involving Betta Edu, it should be investigated by appropriate authorities, and she should be held accountable if found guilty. However, it is important to remember that until all the facts have been established, individuals should not be subjected to false accusations or defamation. In conclusion, it is crucial to adhere to principles of justice and fairness, and to adopt an evidence-based approach when discussing matters related to corruption or any other sensitive issue.

Betta Edu

Betta Edu

Betta Edu is an astute Nigerian politician, who has made significant contributions to various areas of development in the country. She is a highly respected public servant, who has held and currently holds various leadership positions at both state and national levels in Nigeria.

Betta Edu grew up in a family of six in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria. From an early age, Edu was passionate about public service and the well-being of her community. She attended Delta State University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in Microbiology. During her undergraduate studies, she was involved in many extracurricular activities, including voluntary service to her local community.

Upon graduation, Betta Edu joined the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and was posted to Lagos State to teach biology at Government College, Ketu Epe. During her service year, she volunteered for many community development projects, including fundraising for the rehabilitation of a health center in the community.

After her mandatory one year NYSC program, she began her career in public service by working as a public relations officer at STACO Insurance in Lagos. However, her passion for activism and community development pushed her to pursue a career in politics.

Her political career started at the grassroots level, where she worked for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yakurr Local Government Area. In 2015, she was elected to represent Yakurr II Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly. In recognition of her dedication to service, she was appointed as a member of the House Committee on Health and subsequently became the Head of the Health Committee. During her tenure, she successfully sponsored bills and resolutions, improved the health system, and increased the quality of healthcare in Cross River State.

Betta Edu was later appointed as the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development in Cross River State, where she launched several programs aimed at empowering women and youth. Under her leadership, the state government distributed free sanitary pads to over 9,000 schoolgirls to promote menstrual hygiene and ensure that they do not miss school during their menstrual cycle. Also, she initiated a program that provides free ICT training to young adults across the state, helping them to acquire valuable skills for their personal and professional growth.

Betta Edu was later appointed as the Commissioner for Health in Cross River State. In her role as the health commissioner, she has continued to make significant contributions to the public health sector in Nigeria. She has completed several health infrastructure projects, including the reconstruction and renovation of 42 primary healthcare centers across the state. She also launched the “Save A Life” program, which provides emergency services to road accident victims, and the “One Woman, One Project” initiative, which encourages women to initiate and lead health projects in their communities.

Betta Edu is a passionate advocate for women and youth empowerment, healthcare, education, and community development. Her numerous accomplishments in public service have earned her recognition both within and outside Nigeria. In 2020, she was named the Maternal and Child Health Ambassador for the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) in Nigeria.

In conclusion, Betta Edu is a remarkable Nigerian politician who has dedicated her career to serving her community and the people of Nigeria. She has been a source of inspiration to many young Nigerians and serves as a role model for women in politics. Her passion and dedication to public service are exemplary, and her accomplishments in various leadership positions are enough to inspire the next generation of leaders in Nigeria.

Know the Tribes in Plateau State

KNOW THE TRIBES IN PLATEAU STATE.

BARKIN LADI

1. Berom

BASSA

1. Amo 

2. Bache

3. Buji

4. Chokobo 

5. Duguza

6. Gus

7.  Irigwe

8.  Jere

9. Janji

10.  Kurama

11. Lemoro

12. Runzu

13. Ribina

14. Tarya

BOKKOS

1. Mushere

2. Ron

3. Kulere

JOS EAST

1. Afizere

2. Firan

JOS NORTH

1. Afizere

2. Anaguta

3. Berom

JOS SOUTH

1. Berom 

KANKE

1.  Mhiship

2. Ngas

3. Taroh

KANAM

1. Bogghom

2. Jahr

LANGTANG NORTH

1. Taroh

LANGTANG SOUTH

1. Taroh

MIKANG

1. Youm

2. Piapung

RIYOM

1. Attakar

2. Atten

3. Berom

4. Piti

 

PANKSHIN

1. Bijim

2. Bwarak

3. Fier

4. Kadung

5.  Mhiship

6. Mupun

7. Ngas

8. Pai

9. Takkas

10 Tal

11. Tambes

12. Tehl Tao

MANGU

1. Bijim 

2. Chakfem

3. Jipal

4. Kadung

5. Mwaghavul

6. Pyem

7. Sigdi

QUAN-PAN

1. Bwall

2. Doemak

3. Kwagalak

4. Merniang

5. Nteng

SHENDAM

1. Gamai

2. Koenoem 

3. Pai

WASE

1.  Bashar

2. Jukun

3. Tar oh

Why the Christian-Muslim Ticket Doesn’t Work in Plateau State

The Muslim-Muslim Ticket of Tinubu and Shettima

Nigerian is a nation where politics flows along religious and tribal canals. The sitting President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is a Muslim and picked a Muslim running mate during his election. This is something that is happening for the first time in the history of the democratic presidency in Nigeria. The issue has generated tons of conversations in favour of and against. The President, however, chose his running mate based on his calculation of how to secure victory.

I saw a video of an Islamic preacher from Kaduna State talking about why Kaffirs (referring to Christians) hate Mallam Nasiru El Rufai. He said that El Rufai is hated by Christians because he refused to take a Christian running mate and still won the election. The Sheik asked why it is expected of Kaduna when that doesn’t happen in Plateau State.

Well, I think he acted in ignorance.  There are three reasons why Muslims are not taken as running mates in Plateau State.

First reason is the fact that politicians work with numbers that will give them victory. In Plateau State, there are about forty tribes, but five stand out as majority. These are Berom, Taroh, Ngas, Mwaghavul, and Gomai. Since, our politics often follow tribal lines, a gubernatorial candidate would want to pick from any of these tribes to ensure victory.

Second reason is the fact that the Muslims consider it distasteful, giving their votes to a non-Muslim. In the decades since the coming of democracy in Nigeria, Plateau Muslims prefer bringing out a Muslim candidate and casting the bulk of their votes to him, despite knowing it wouldn’t be enough to secure victory. So, a gubernatorial candidate wouldn’t want to pick a Muslim running mate since it doesn’t change the opinion of his Muslim brothers. He would prefer picking from any of the five tribes.

The third reason why chances of a Muslim securing the seat of a running mate in Plateau State is difficult is the fact that Plateau people believe that, across this  country, a Plateau man has never been chosen as a running mate (and will never be)  in any of the remaining thirty-five states. So, why should it be different in Plateau State?

ChatGPT Admits it Can't Review My Book

I requested TRUEGPT to do a Review of my book, How to Become a Music Maestro. This is the result : Unfortunately, as an AI language model, I am not capable of performing a book review or providing an opinion about the quality of a book. However, I can provide general information about the book, "How to Become a Music Maestro" by Yiro Abari High.

Based on the title, the book appears to be a practical guide for aspiring music artists who want to improve their skills and succeed in the industry. The book is written by Yiro Abari High, who is likely an experienced musician or music teacher.

From the title and author name, it seems like the book may focus on classical music, as the term "maestro" is often used to describe a conductor or composer in this genre. However, without reading the book, it's difficult to know for sure what topics the author covers.

The book may include information on music theory, instrument technique, and composition, in addition to advice on how to develop one's musical skills, stage presence, or career as an artist. It's also possible that the author may offer personal anecdotes or case studies of successful artists to provide inspiration and guidance for readers.

Overall, "How to Become a Music Maestro" seems like it could be a helpful resource for aspiring musicians looking to improve their craft and succeed in the music industry. As with any guide or tutorial, the quality of the information and the style of the writing will ultimately determine how valuable the book is for individual readers.

The Threat Reggae Faces in Contemporary Times

           

 

       Credit : phys.org

Reggae music is a genre that originated in Jamaica in the 1960s and has since become a popular genre of music worldwide. Reggae music is known for its message of peace, love, and social justice, and has been instrumental in promoting social change and activism. However, despite its widespread popularity, reggae music is not without its challenges and dangers.

One of the main dangers facing reggae music is censorship. Reggae music has often been associated with controversial and subversive themes that challenge mainstream power structures. Subversive themes such as criticism of government policies or social injustices can be seen as a threat to the established order leading to censorship or outright banning of the music.

Jamaica, the birthplace of reggae music, has a long history of censorship and repression of music, particularly if it contains lyrics that are perceived as promoting violence or going against the cultural or religious values of the community. In 1985, for instance, the Jamaican government banned the music of influential reggae artist Peter Tosh, claiming that his lyrics were promoting violence and disrespect for authority.

Additionally, the worldwide popularity of reggae music has led to the commercialization and commodification of the genre. The corporatization of reggae music has led to a homogenization of the sound for the sake of wider appeal to consumers. This has led to a situation where the original meaning and purpose of the genre has been lost in the pursuit of commercial success.

The commercialization of reggae music has also led to cultural appropriation, where artists outside of Jamaica have taken on the reggae sound and style without understanding the culture and history behind it. This lack of understanding can trivialize the struggles of Jamaica that are reflected in reggae music and reduce it to a mere trend.

Another danger facing reggae music is the marginalization of female artists. Reggae music has traditionally been a male-dominated industry, with very few female artists being promoted or given equal opportunities. Women in reggae music have often been dismissed or relegated into the background, with their contributions not being recognized fully.

Moreover, the very nature of the music industry means that many reggae artists live difficult lives of poverty and struggle for recognition and pay. This struggle is particularly acute for those artists who have not aligned themselves with the mainstream and are more susceptible to market forces that can limit their reach and potential.

In conclusion, reggae music has been a powerful contributor to change and revolution in society. However, its significance continues to face challenges from censorship and commodification to cultural appropriation and marginalization of female artists. These difficulties require that steps be taken to preserve the integrity and meaning of the genre both to those who have loved it for decades as well as to those who are newly discovering it. While individual artists can use their voice to push back against commercialization and marginalization and continue to advocate for social justice, it will take a collective commitment to keep the roots of reggae alive while also ensuring it grows to reach a wider audience.