The Managing Director/CEO of Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) Ltd., Engr. Jennifer Adighije, has urged Federal Government’s intervention in the challenges facing the nation’s power sector, particularly the liquidity crisis of over N4 trillion owed to generation companies (GenCos).
Adighije spoke at the weekend when she received the House of Representatives Committee on Power, led by its Chairman, Rep. Victor Nwokolo, on a site inspection of the Egbema NIPP Power Plant.
The inspection aimed to assess the progress of the ongoing project and discuss challenges facing the project as well as the power sector at large.
She appealed for presidential intervention to facilitate funding for ongoing projects, settle outstanding payments, and enhance energy access nationwide.
Furthermore, Adighije reiterated NDPHC’s commitment to advancing the President’s vision of reliable, affordable electricity, and positioning the company as the backbone of Nigeria’s power sector.
She emphasized the significance of the Egbema Power Plant as a key project under the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP).
While providing an overview of the plant’s status to the federal lawmakers, Adighije said the project consists of three generating units with an installed capacity of 375MW each awarded to CMEC China Machinery Engineering Company in 2023, with completion targeted for end of the year.
According to her, NDPHC is closely monitoring the progress to ensure timely completion.
Rep. Nwokolo, the Chairman of the House Committee on Power, commended the NDPHC management for their proactive approach in reviving the Egbema Power Plant.
He recalled that the project had faced delays in the past due to litigation issues, but noted that the new management and the contractor have significantly accelerated its progress.
Persecondnews gathered that following the inspection, approximately 60% of the work has been completed, bringing the project closer to inauguration.
Nwokolo expressed the confidence that with proper funding, the contractors would deliver the project on schedule.
Addressing broader sectoral concerns, he acknowledged the cash crunch in the industry but praised the President for signing the Electricity Act, which has improved the financial viability of the power sector.
He noted that new tariff structures are making the sector more attractive to investors and financial institutions.
The Chairman further commended Mr. President for his Renewed Hope Agenda and commitment to power sector reforms.
He also commended the Minister of Power for his leadership and efforts in advancing critical projects.
The contractors were also commended for their dedication to ensuring steady progress.
He emphasized that beyond electricity generation, the project would create jobs, enhance security, and contribute to economic growth in the adjoining communities.
The Committee Chairman also highlighted the concerns of the Speaker, House of Representatives, regarding developments in the power sector.
He assured that Egbema Power Plant, with adequate funding, will soon reach full operational capacity and align with other functional power plants.
On the need for increased power sector funding through the supplementary budget, the lawmaker expressed the hope for increased funding, commending the President for increasing the sector’s budget, a reflection of his commitment to power sector development.
He assured that the National Assembly will not distort allocations, but will ensure that funds are effectively utilized.
He emphasized the strong relationship between NDPHC and the legislative committee on power, which has contributed to smoother legislative oversight and minimal public hearing issues.
Persecondnews reports that the inspection has reaffirmed the commitment of both the Executive and Legislative arms of government to enhancing Nigeria’s power sector.
NDPHC remains committed to delivering on its mandate to expand power generation capacity and contribute to national energy security and economic development.
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