Otti: Stable Power Supply Key to Abia's Economic Progress

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has reiterated his administration's strong commitment to enhancing electricity provision across the state. This pledge was made during a meeting held on Wednesday at the Government House in Umuahia, where Governor Otti hosted Ms. Jennifer Adighije, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC). During the discussion, Governor Otti lauded the NDPHC for successfully reactivating the 450-megawatt Alaoji Open Circuit Power Plant. He acknowledged that the plant's return to operation followed crucial remedial work and the resolution of outstanding issues with gas suppliers. Emphasizing the significance of reliable power, Otti stated, "Power is one of the most important infrastructures for driving growth in any economy. Production depends on power. Life itself depends on power. Schools, hospitals, everybody requires power. We want to congratulate you and thank you again for bringing the Alaoji plant back to life. Generating close to 400 megawatts is a major achievement." The Governor highlighted that the improved output from the Alaoji plant would significantly bolster Abia State's ongoing efforts to enhance electricity supply, especially within the Umuahia power market, which is currently undergoing development by the state government. He further revealed that the state has formalized an agreement with the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) for the acquisition of electricity distribution assets that cover various parts of Abia. "That agreement has been signed, and we are now at the payment stage," Otti confirmed. He added that once this acquisition is finalized, coupled with the establishment of the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency, a robust framework for efficient power distribution within the state would be firmly in place. Governor Otti also mentioned the state's investment in renewable energy and mini-grid initiatives, aiming to achieve stable electricity supply through a diversified energy portfolio. Earlier in the meeting, NDPHC's MD, Ms. Adighije, informed the Governor that her company had successfully restored three generating units at the Alaoji plant, contributing approximately 375 megawatts to the national grid. She explained that the plant had been non-operational since 2023 due to complications arising from gas supply and metering inconsistencies. Adighije elaborated that the restoration involved extensive rehabilitation work and the settlement of all outstanding financial obligations to gas suppliers. She also expressed NDPHC's eagerness to collaborate with the Abia State Government to boost electricity supply, aligning with the provisions of the Electricity Act. "As the largest power generation company in Nigeria with over 4,000 megawatts installed capacity, we are aggressively pursuing strategic partnerships with State governments and eligible customers. We believe Abia State presents a strong and viable partnership opportunity," she affirmed. Key officials present at the visit included the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribeole; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, PhD; the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu; and the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Mr. Ikechukwu.