Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has announced ambitious plans for his administration to assume control of power distribution across the entire state to ensure a consistent and reliable electricity supply for its residents and businesses.
Speaking on Monday during the commissioning and tour of Aba Power�s new 2 X 15 MVA Ogbor Hill Sub-Station, attended by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Governor Otti revealed that all necessary evaluations to acquire the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) franchise within Abia State have been finalized.
�As part of our commitment to ensuring steady electricity, our government is set to acquire the Umuahia ringed-fence of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC),� Governor Otti stated. �The step is geared towards providing uninterrupted power to the remaining eight Local Government Areas (LGAs) not covered by the Geometric Power grid.�
He further disclosed that the state government has completed all necessary evaluations and due diligence, and an official offer will be made to EEDC imminently. Governor Otti projected that with the full operation of Geometric Power�s 11 substations, Abia State will have over 80 megawatts of surplus power. He emphasized that this excess capacity would be directly channeled to Umuahia and surrounding areas for local consumption, rather than being injected into the national grid.
Governor Otti underscored the pivotal role of Aba as a key driver of industrialization and economic growth within Abia State. He highlighted the city�s significant potential and its urgent need for a dependable electricity supply, reinforcing the importance of his administration�s ongoing efforts in the power sector.
�By integrating excess electricity capacity with decisive policy implementation and targeted utility restructuring, Abia is ensuring energy stability, efficiency, and accessibility, empowering businesses, households, and key industries for long-term economic prosperity,� Governor Otti affirmed.
This strategic move by the Abia State government signifies a bold step towards achieving energy independence and fostering economic development through a reliable and locally controlled power distribution network.
