Assurances of stable and sustainable power supply in all parts of Nigeria have been given by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu.
During an inspection visit to the Calabar power plant of Niger Delta Power Holding Company in the capital of Cross River State, Calabar, he emphasized on the ongoing efforts of the Federal Government in reforming the power sector to ensure stability of power supply nationwide.
Addressing the increase in energy demands, Adelabu highlighted the government’s unwavering commitment to meet these demands.
Encouraging proactive participation in the oil and gas sector, he stressed the importance of effective issue resolution by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in that sector as well.
Recognizing the significance of the power sector to the government and national economy, he stated, “The President has tasked me with visiting all power plants in the country to assess their operational status.
“After my evaluation, I find that the Calabar Power Plant of the NDPHC is the most active and satisfactory. We are promoting power installation and generation.
“This will not be business as usual. Players in the power sector need to be proactive, as the Federal Government is restructuring the sector for optimal power generation and distribution to meet the high demands of Nigerians.”
Regarding the privatization of the plant to the Cross River State government, he mentioned that the proposal is currently with the Federal Privatization Council and the Federal Executive Council.
The Cross River State Commissioner for Power and Energy, Prince Eka Williams, expressed the state government’s readiness and capability to efficiently operate the firm, citing the available expertise.
Emphasizing the commitment to citizen welfare, he noted the dedication of the government under Senator Bassey Otu.
Chiedu Ugbo, the Managing Director of the firm, mentioned that they are currently supplying power to most of the South-South and South-East regions of Nigeria.
He highlighted the necessity for additional sub-transmission power stations to extend power distribution to more locations, while condemning vandalism and urging citizens to refrain from such destructive activities.