Abia Moves to Strengthen Electricity Supply Through New Power Partnerships
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has restated his administration’s commitment to improving electricity supply in the state through strategic reforms and partnerships in the power sector.
The governor made this known on Wednesday in Umuahia when he received the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company, Jennifer Adighije, at the Government House.
Otti praised the company for restoring operations at the 450MW Alaoji Open Cycle Power Plant after extensive repairs and resolution of gas supply challenges, describing the development as a major boost to energy availability in the region.
“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,” the governor said.
He added that the revival of the Alaoji plant, which is now generating close to 400 megawatts, represents a significant step toward stabilising electricity supply in the state.
The governor explained that the state is already developing the Umuahia power market to improve distribution and ensure more reliable access to electricity for residents and businesses.
He also revealed that the government has signed an agreement with the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company to take over certain electricity distribution assets within Abia, noting that the process is now at the payment stage.
According to him, once the arrangement is completed and the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency becomes fully operational, the state will have a stronger framework for managing power distribution efficiently.
Otti further disclosed that his administration is also investing in renewable energy and mini-grid solutions to ensure a more stable and diversified power supply system across communities.
Earlier, Jennifer Adighije said the Niger Delta Power Holding Company had successfully restored three generating units at the Alaoji plant, adding about 375 megawatts to the national grid.
She explained that the plant had been inactive since 2023 due to gas supply issues and unresolved metering challenges, but said those problems have now been addressed.
Adighije also expressed readiness for deeper collaboration with the Abia State Government under the framework of the Electricity Act, noting that Abia remains a viable partner for energy investment and expansion.
The meeting was attended by top state officials including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribeole, the Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, and the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, among others.
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