By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Imo State Government has pledged to collaborate with the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) to enhance electricity supply in the state.
The focus is on completing the 378.3 MW Egbema Power Plant, along with the 330/33kV switchyard, the Omoku-Egbema-Owerri-Alaoji 330kV DC transmission lines projects and the Owerri transmission substation expansion project.
These projects are at various stages of completion. While the power plant is 70 percent complete, there are challenges facing transmission projects including issues related to way leave and funding.
Governor Hope Uzodinma reaffirmed this commitment during a meeting with the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, at the Government House in Owerri.
According to the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media, Bolaji Tunji, the Minister, after inspecting the power plant in Egbema with NDPHC Managing Director, Mr. Chiedu Ugbo, commended Governor Uzodinma for his dedication to collaborating with NDPHC in order to complete these critical power infrastructure projects.
“The Minister praised President Bola Tinubu for signing the 2023 Electricity Act, which allows states to participate in the electricity sector.
“Chief Adelabu commended Governor Uzodinma for his commitment to working with NDPHC to expedite completion of the Egbema power plant and associated transmission projects, which will improve electricity supply not only in Imo State but also nationwide.
“The proposed collaboration between the Imo state government and NDPHC aims to enhance electricity supply and energize homes and businesses in Imo state and completing the Egbema Power Plant and associated transmission infrastructure is crucial to achieving this goal.
“Niger Delta power Holding Company Limited, an entity owned by the federal government, states and 774 local government councils is poised to improve the electricity situation in Imo state with the support of the state government and other stakeholders so it can contribute to national economic growth”, the statement reads in part.
