Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has successfully restored electricity to 33 communities in Ukwa West Local Government Area, ending a blackout that had lasted for nine years.
The power restoration was executed through the Abia State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ASOPADEC) under the supervision of the Ministry of Power and Public Utilities, in fulfillment of a promise made by Governor Otti in March 2025.
Community Engagement and Government Commitment
The official switch-on ceremony took place at Central Primary School, Obehie, where the governor arrived alongside members of his cabinet aboard the newly launched Abia Green Shuttle Electric Vehicle (EV) bus. Addressing residents, Governor Otti urged the communities to take ownership of the electricity infrastructure and safeguard it against vandalism and theft.
“We all have a responsibility to protect what belongs to our community. Nobody can do it better than you. Those who vandalize these facilities are not outsiders; they are members of the community,” the governor stated.
Governor Otti also acknowledged concerns over the affordability of electricity bills and directed relevant stakeholders to engage with residents to develop solutions that would ease payment challenges for vulnerable households.
Project Scope and Technical Details
The Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, outlined the technical scope of the project. According to him, the restoration involved the rehabilitation of 30 transformer distribution substations, the installation of 12 new transformers, and the reconstruction of 37.5 kilometres of both high- and low-tension power lines.
In his remarks, Prof. Bartholomew Nnaji, Chief Executive Officer of Aba Power Limited, assured residents of a reliable and uninterrupted power supply. He explained that electricity for the communities would now be generated independently of the national grid, enhancing stability and efficiency.
A Milestone for Abia State
The event was attended by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, several commissioners, and former government officials. The restoration of electricity to Ukwa West communities is widely regarded as a significant milestone in Abia State’s development agenda, with expected positive impacts on economic activities, education, healthcare, and overall quality of life.
Source: Gistreel.com
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