Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company, a prominent power distribution company in Nigeria, has announced Dr. Unar Abubakar Hashidu as its new Managing Director. This appointment comes in the wake of Engr. Yusuf Usman Yahaya’s departure as the former Managing Director last week.
According to a statement released by Abdulazeez Abdullahi, Head of Corporate Communication, on January 8, 2024, the transition was marked by a handover ceremony at the company’s headquarters in Kaduna. The event, presided over by Mr. Dafe Okpaneye, the NERC Commissioner for Legal Licensing and Compliance, included an interaction with the staff.
Mr. Okpaneye expressed gratitude to the former MD for his contributions over the past 18 months and encouraged Dr. Hashidu to leverage the talent and resources at his disposal to elevate Kaduna Electric to new heights.
Addressing the Executive Management Committee and staff, Dr. Hashidu called for introspection and collective effort to improve the company’s image and performance. He conveyed his confidence in the team’s ability to transform Kaduna Electric’s reputation positively.
Engr. Yusuf, in his farewell address, appreciated the staff for their support during his tenure and encouraged them to extend the same cooperation to Dr. Hashidu.
The staff warmly welcomed Dr. Hashidu, promising full support for his leadership and wishing the outgoing MD success in his future endeavors.
Prior to this role, Dr. Hashidu notably served as the Managing Director of the North East Development Commission (NEDC) and the Yola Electricity Distribution Company.
According to a report by Energy News Africa, Dr. Hashidu’s appointment coincides with the induction of special directors to form the non-executive directors of the board, ensuring robust governance. The team includes Alex A. Okoh (Chairman), Kabir Adamu, Sharfuddeen Zubair Mahmoud, John Ayodele, and Rahila Thomas.
This leadership reshuffle follows the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s (NERC) dissolution of Kaduna Electric’s Board of Directors. The dissolution was due to the company’s failure to settle a N110bn debt owed to the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trade (NBET) and TCN’s Market Operator (MO). The NERC order, dated January 1, 2024, also highlighted delays in finding a new buyer for the company.
In summary, Dr. Hashidu’s appointment as the new Managing Director of Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company marks a pivotal moment in the company’s journey, presenting an opportunity for renewed leadership and strategic direction in Nigeria’s dynamic energy sector.
