The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued an order transferring regulatory oversight of the electricity market in Niger to the state’s electricity regulatory commission.

In a statement on Friday, NERC said the decision is in compliance with the amended Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFRN) and the Electricity Act 2023 (Amended).

According to the statement, NERC will maintain its position as the central regulator, overseeing inter-state/international generation, transmission, supply, trading, and system operations in line with the Electricity Act.

“The EA also mandates any state that intends to establish and regulate intrastate electricity markets to deliver a formal notification of its processes and requests NERC to transfer regulatory authority over electricity operations in the state to the State Regulator,” NERC said.

“Based on this, the Government of Niger State complied with the conditions precedent in the laws, duly notified NERC and requested for the transfer of regulatory oversight of the intrastate electricity market in Niger State.”

NERC directed the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) to incorporate a subsidiary (AEDC SubCo) to take over the duties of supplying and distributing electricity within Niger state from AEDC.

The commission said the incorporation of the subsidiary must be completed within 60 days starting from January 10, adding that the subsidiary must apply for and obtain a licence for intrastate electricity supply and distribution from Niger State Electricity Regulatory Commission (NSERC).

“Direct Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company Plc (IBEDC) to incorporate a subsidiary (IBEDC SubCo) to assume responsibilities for intrastate supply and distribution of electricity in Niger State from IBEDC,” NERC said.

“IBEDC shall complete the incorporation of IBEDC SubCo within 60 days from 10th January 2024. The subcompany shall apply for and obtain licence for the intrastate supply and distribution of electricity from NSERC, among other directives.”

NERC said all transfers envisaged by the order must be completed by July 9.

United State carrier Delta Air Lines has announced the inclusion of local dishes into food options that will be made available to passengers, on its Lagos-Atlanta flight.

In a statement made available to The PUNCH on Thursday, the airline noted that Nigerian delicacies such as ‘Ewa Agoin will now be available to passengers.

It also promised to offer a luxurious travel experience for passengers flying in its Delta One premium cabin from Murtala Muhammed International Airport to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

The airline stated, “This holiday season, passengers can indulge in a delectable range of continental and Nigerian-inspired culinary delights designed to satisfy a variety of tastes while flying.

“As part of the premium cabin experience, Delta One travellers are treated to a carefully curated selection of dishes. Upon take-off, guests can choose from an array of starters, including sliced beef fillet with pineapple salsa and sweet chilli sauce, a refreshing corn soup with toasted corn salsa, or a mixed greens salad with spicy lemon dressing. A sunflower roll, served with whole butter, completes the initial course.”

It will be recalled that in October, Keyamo directed foreign airlines to patronise local caterers for on-board meals.

He gave the directive through a letter dated October 15, 2024, in which the ministry said the directive takes effect from January 1.

While hinting at the new cuisine, the airline also explained that food will now be served twice onboard.

The statement reads partly, “For the main course, Delta showcases the best of Nigerian cuisine alongside international options.

Those in the mood for a traditional Nigerian dish can enjoy roasted cod with basmati rice, agoyin-style beans, and sweet plantains, or opt for grilled chicken thigh with jollof rice and plantain.

A plant-based alternative, featuring a hearty bean stew with rice, spinach, tomatoes, and fried onions, is also available for vegetarians.

“Dessert options include a pineapple upside-down tart with whipped cream, a fresh seasonal fruit assortment, a classic ice cream sundae, or a refined fruit and cheese plate, offering something for every sweet tooth.

“As the flight nears its descent into Atlanta, Delta One passengers are treated to a final meal, featuring spicy chicken pie, a vegetable salad with zesty lemon dressing, and a selection of mini desserts. For those preferring a vegetarian option, jollof risotto with roasted vegetables and a spicy tomato sauce is available, paired with fresh fruit and mini desserts.”

The Sudanese government, in an effort to stabilize its crumbling economy, has introduced new banknotes and compelled the largely unbanked population to open bank accounts.

The initiative, launched in December, aims to render funds looted by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) worthless.

According to Finance Minister Jibril Ibrahim, the initiative has been successful, though he did not specify the amount of Sudanese pounds deposited.

Sudan has been embroiled in a two-year conflict between the army and the RSF, which has severely damaged the economy, devalued the currency by three-quarters, and left half the population facing hunger.

Ibrahim stated that the government’s move has significantly boosted bank deposits. “This helps the banking sector, and when you help the banking sector, that helps the state to finance projects, including the war effort and productive activities,” Ibrahim told Reuters in an interview.

Limited amount to be withdrawn daily

To receive the new 500-pound and 1,000-pound banknotes, citizens have been required to deposit their old notes in banks and are allowed to withdraw limited amounts daily. This strategy has drawn funds from a largely unbanked society into the formal financial system.

Since the onset of the war, RSF soldiers have looted numerous banks and obstructed agricultural activities, making it difficult for the army-aligned government to pay salaries and finance essential goods such as medicine.

Ibrahim noted that Sudan produced 64 tonnes of gold last year and officially exported about half, indicating that the proportion of looted gold in army-controlled areas has decreased.

A source at Sudan’s central bank revealed that the new banknotes were printed in Russia, one of several foreign powers intervening in the conflict.