AN INTERVIEW WITH ENGINEER DR SAMUEL OLIVER EFFIOM, AN EXPERT IN SUSTAINABLE  ENERGY AND  POWER ENGINEERING. AISO AN ACADEMIC, AND SUB DEAN, FACULTY OF ENGINEERING, UNIVERSITY OF CROSS RIVER (UNICROSS).

   
Introduction

Recently the Federal Government had proposed the deregulation of the power sector. It is hoped that with this deregulation, there will be massive transformation in the  sector. This will also afford key players and potential investors the opportunity to make large investment in the country’s power sector.

It is on this note, that our reporters, Alice Ushama and Chinaza Nnanna, consulted the opinion of Engr. Dr. Samuel Oliver Effiom, a university don and an expert in sustainable energy and power engineering, who spoke on the potentials in the power sector as well the pros and cons of the deregulation of the power sector.

Beagle News : Sir, can we meet you?

 Effiom : I am Engr. Dr. Samuel Oliver Effiom, a Senior Academic and the Sub Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Cross River State. I am also an expert in the energy and power sector, with my work spanning the development of sustainable energy and gas-to-power projects across sub-Saharan Africa.

Beagle News: How long have you been in the power sector?

 Effiom: My career in the power sector began with my postgraduate studies – a Thermal Power Engineering Master’s degree in Gas Turbine Technology from Cranfield University, UK, and a Ph.D. in Energy and Power Engineering. With several internships and consultancy roles in the energy and power sector, I have accumulated about 15 years of professional experience.

Beagle News: Can you tell us more about your working experience?

Effiom: My working experience combines both academia and industry, giving me a unique perspective on sustainable energy and power development. I am a Senior Academic and Sub Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Cross River State. I am an expert in Sustainable Energy and Power Engineering. I serve as the Power Plant Development Manager/Energy Consultant, where I am responsible for developing gas-to-power projects across sub-Saharan Africa. 

My expertise covers engineering education, research, and academic administration, with a strong focus on sustainable energy technologies and their practical applications. In the industry, I partner with leading gas turbine Overall Equipment Manufacturers: Solar Turbines, General Electric, Siemens, (OEMs) providing sustainable power generation solutions tailored to customer’s needs. I also provide aftermarket technical sales and support, including parts, services, and equipment upgrades.

I have been instrumental in developing and executing turnkey EPC project plans for gas turbine projects, including; overseeing condition monitoring and operational management of a dual-fuel gas power plant, Mondou, Republic of Chad, monitoring the installation and commissioning of a HFO power plant in Ndjamena, Republic of Chad, and also overseeing various mid-range gas power projects in Nigeria. This blend of academic and industry experience allows me to approach power sector development with a well-rounded understanding, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical execution.

Beagle News: Are you aware of the federal government's proposal to deregulate the power sector and what is your take on it?

Effiom: Yes, I am fully aware. In fact, the Nigerian government initiated the Power Sector Reform Act in 2005, which set the foundation for deregulation. The primary goal of this reform is to improve efficiency, reliability, and competition in the electricity supply chain – generation, transmission, and distribution. Although progress has been made, several challenges remain.
 

Beagle News: Can you tell us some of the benefits it will bring to the masses?

Effiom: Deregulation brings several key benefits. First, it encourages private sector participation, reducing government control and fostering competition. This, in turn, improves the efficiency, reliability, and availability of electricity supply. By allowing private companies to invest in power generation, distribution, and transmission independently, the sector becomes more innovative and responsive to demand, ultimately reducing electricity costs and enhancing service quality.
 
Beagle News: Can you tell us about the disadvantages of deregulation of the power sector?

 Effiom: The most significant challenge facing deregulation is inadequate infrastructure. Despite private sector’s involvement, Nigeria’s power infrastructure remains underdeveloped, resulting in frequent outages and transmission losses. Inefficient distribution networks also hamper service quality, leading to high operational costs and revenue losses.

Beagle News: With this deregulation, will you be interested in owning an industry that sells or distributes power?

Effiom: Certainly! There is immense potential for investment in Nigeria's power sector. For instance, in Cross River State, several companies are in the preliminary phase of partnering with the state government to manage state-owned generation assets. By taking ownership of power generation, distribution, and transmission, private firms can streamline operations and reduce costs. Collaborations with existing distribution companies, like the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company, can further optimise infrastructure use and minimise capital costs.

Beagle News: So what would be your advice for the federal government regarding the deregulation of the power sector?

 Effiom: I commend the government for taking the bold step to deregulate the power sector, because it is a long-term investment with far-reaching benefits. However, the government must prioritise infrastructure development to support private sector growth. By providing funding and policy support for power projects, the government can create a conducive environment for competition and efficiency – eventually leading to lower electricity tariffs and improved service quality for Nigerians.

Beagle News: Thank you for granting us this interview.

Effiom: You are welcome.