Abia State Governor Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving electricity supply through strategic partnerships, regulatory reforms, and investments in renewable energy across the state.
Mr Otti made this known while receiving the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company, Jennifer Adighije, at the Government House in Umuahia on Wednesday.
The governor described electricity as one of the most critical infrastructures needed to drive economic growth, industrial productivity, healthcare delivery, and overall development.
According to Mr Otti, the restoration of operations at the 450MW Alaoji Open Circuit Power Plant is a major boost to Abia State’s electricity ambitions and broader power sector reforms.
“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,” Mr Otti said.
He commended the Niger Delta Power Holding Company for reviving the plant after remedial works and resolving issues linked to gas supply.
Abia electricity reforms and power sector push
Mr Otti said the revived plant would strengthen efforts to improve electricity supply, especially within the developing Umuahia power market.
He disclosed that the Abia State Government had signed an agreement with the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company to acquire electricity distribution assets covering parts of the state.
According to him, the deal is currently at the payment stage and would support the state’s plan to establish a stronger electricity distribution framework.
Mr Otti added that the proposed Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency would help improve efficiency, oversight, and power distribution across the state.
The governor also said the administration is expanding investments in renewable energy projects and mini-grid infrastructure to diversify power generation and ensure stable electricity supply.
NDPHC restores Alaoji power plant operations
Earlier, Mrs Jennifer Adighije said the company restored three generating units at the Alaoji plant, making about 375 megawatts available for transmission to the national grid.
She explained that the facility had remained shut since 2023 due to gas supply challenges and metering discrepancies.
According to Mrs Adighije, rehabilitation works were completed after clearing obligations owed to gas suppliers, allowing the restoration of the power plant.
She also reaffirmed the company’s willingness to partner with the Abia State Government under the Electricity Act framework.
Mrs Adighije said Abia presents a strong opportunity for collaboration as the company expands strategic partnerships with state governments to improve electricity infrastructure and power generation.
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