FIC Report (Abia State) – Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has performed the groundbreaking ceremony for a combined 15 MVA injection substation initiative designed to significantly strengthen power supply in Umuahia and its environs.
A major highlight of the event was the clear emphasis on the Federal Government’s pivotal role in the project. The first component of the power upgrade—the 7.5 MVA, 33/11 kV substation—is being executed under the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) through the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC). This Federal Government–dependent investment signals renewed commitment by the FG to decentralizing and expanding power infrastructure in states across the federation.
Complementing the FG-driven substation is another 7.5 MVA injection substation to be undertaken by the state government, already captured in the 2026 budget proposal. This twin approach creates a synergy that amplifies the project’s impact, demonstrating how Federal and State collaboration can accelerate development.
Speaking at the event in Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s determination to solve Abia’s long-standing energy challenges through innovative, multi-channel engagement.
“We thought ahead of them (NDPHC), and included the complementary 7.5 MVA substation in the 2026 budget before the Assembly. This ensures we walk side-by-side with the Federal Government to deliver reliable power to our people,” he said.
The Governor assured that the State’s component would be completed within three months (January to March) and urged the NDPHC contractors to speed up their delivery timeline to six months so both projects can be commissioned together by June 2026.
Dr. Otti expressed deep appreciation to the President for redirecting national electricity policy to embrace broader participation from States, private investors, and global partners. He also thanked the management of NDPHC, led by Engr. Jennifer Adighije, for prioritizing Abia in this strategic Federal Government-powered infrastructure investment.
“This gesture strengthens our conviction in partnership as a development vehicle. Abia State will deploy every necessary resource to ensure timely delivery and maximum benefit to our communities,” he added.
The Governor further disclosed that the State has finalized arrangements with Heirs Holdings for uninterrupted gas supply to Aba Power Limited, paving the way for enhanced electricity generation in the region.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, assured continued legislative support to drive the administration’s development agenda, noting that such impactful projects have become a norm under Governor Otti.
Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, explained that Umuahia’s current power feed is overloaded, making the new substations essential.
He emphasized that the Governor has consistently maintained that power reliability is foundational to Abia’s economic transformation.
Goodwill messages from national and state legislator including Senator Darlington Nwokocha, Hon. Obi Aguocha, and Hon. Oluchi Udo Ibeji—praised the Governor for championing a Federal Government–backed intervention that will unlock development potential for businesses and communities.
Representing the NDPHC Managing Director/CEO, Engr. Bello Babayo Bello described the groundbreaking as a “significant milestone” in efforts to strengthen national power infrastructure. He detailed key installations under the FG-driven component, including:
7.5 MVA, 33/11 kV Injection Substation
1 km of 33 kV Line
1.2 km of 11 kV Line
Two 300 kVA distribution substations
2 km of Low Tension (LT) line
He reiterated that stable power supply is critical to Nigeria’s industrial productivity and long-term economic sustainability.
Signed
Abiakam Gloria Ify
HOC, FIC Umuahia Abia State.
December 3,2025.
