Over 8000 new workers would be required in the power sector in Nigeria to replace the aging and retiring workforce, so as the country can overcome challenges in the power sector and see it generate and sustain 40, 000 MW by 2020. This is according to National Power Training Institute of Nigeria, (NAPTIN) Director-General Eng. Reuben Okeke.
Nigeria will require about $35bn to meet the target of producing 40, 000MW by 2020. The country has also indicated the need to revamp its power distribution to manage the expansion of generation. Nigeria has had many problems of low power production, which has hampered economy and livelihoods.
The director also said there is need for the private power generators and distributors in the country to partner with NAPTIN for training. This is because it is costly to set up own training schools. He also added that the school would bring in electrical engineering training equipment and have a curriculum that meets global standards. He said they were working with the US-based General Electric and the Germany-based Siemens to ensure it was done.
He noted the reduction of electricity-related accidents in the country.
