Aniefiok Christopher
Akwa Ibom State has pledged its readiness to intervene and support the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) for the completion of the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) located along Ikot Ekpene–Ikot Abasi axis of the state.
Governor Eno made the pledge on Tuesday when he received NDPHC’s delegation, led by its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Jennifer Adighije, at Government House, Uyo.
Eno said the intervention was aimed at facilitating the completion of the 330kV transmission line and improving electricity supply across the State.
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He noted that the completion of the transmission project would significantly boost power supply in Akwa Ibom and contribute to the development of the nation’s power sector, hence the state’s decision to support its completion.
Earlier, Engr. Adighije, had commended Governor Eno for his willingness to intervene in the project, describing the gesture as a significant compliment to the development efforts of the administration.
Adighije stated that the non-payment of way-leave compensation to members of communities affected by the project had stalled its completion.
According to her, the project, which commenced about 20 years ago, has faced several challenges, particularly those relating to compensation and community issues.
She explained that the delegation’s visit was primarily to brief the Governor on the challenges confronting the project and to seek the state government’s intervention to facilitate its completion.
The NDPHC boss also congratulated Governor Eno for establishing the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Regulatory Commission (AKSERC), expressing the company’s readiness to collaborate with the state in developing an effective electricity market framework.
She appealed to the State Government to intervene in the outstanding issues to enable the NDPHC complete the project for the benefit of Akwa Ibom residents and the country at large.
The NDPHC delegation were Executive Director, Networks, Bello Bello; Executive Director, Strategy & Commercial, Hon. Patrick Obaihiagbon; and former Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Obong Nsima Ekere.
Engr. Jennifer Adighije
Members of the Governor’s team at the meeting included the Executive Assistant/Chief Delivery Advisor, Mr. Aniefiok Johnson; Commissioner for Power, Hon. Iniobong Robson; Vice Chairman of AKSERC, Dr. Kalu Ukoha; Commercial Engineer, AKSERC, Engr. Ubong Etukudoh; and other government officials.
