ELECTRICITY SUMMIT: GOVERNOR ENO PLEDGES RELIABLE POWER FOR ALL AKWA IBOMITES
Read Time:2 Minute, 19 Second
By Shodayo Sunmisola Michael
Governor Umo Eno has committed to addressing the persistent issue of unreliable power supply in Akwa Ibom State, asserting that electricity is not a luxury but a fundamental requirement for the welfare and progress of the populace.
While speaking to stakeholders at the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Summit on Thursday, themed “Fulfilling the Promise of Reliable, Affordable, and Universal Access to Electricity in Our State,” Eno portrayed himself as a liberator resolute in his mission to free the state from years of erratic power supply, despite its plentiful energy resources.
The governor underscored the contradiction confronting Akwa Ibom: “We are blessed with abundant gas and a state-owned power plant, yet many of our homes, businesses, schools, and hospitals still experience epileptic power supply. Why is our Ibom Power Company (IPC), with an installed capacity of 191 megawatts, not functioning optimally since its establishment in 2001? How can we make it work effectively for our people, given the $9 million loan still being repaid to Afreximbank?”
Eno emphasized the necessity for pragmatic solutions rather than mere dialogue: ““These are difficult questions, but we dare to tread where others fear. Answers must be found, and actions must follow. This summit is not just a talk shop; it is a call to action, with clear timelines and responsibilities. We must learn from other states that have achieved 24/7 power supply.”
Recognizing the presence of delegates from neighboring states, the governor highlighted the significance of collaboration: “Only through collective bargaining and shared experiences can we move forward in our journey toward electricity for all.”
He articulated the critical role of reliable power in daily life: “When rural health clinics have steady electricity, lives are saved. When farmers can process and store produce, incomes rise. When artisans have dependable power, productivity soars. When children study under good lighting, the future becomes brighter. Electricity is the fundamental resource that enables our people to live better lives.”
READ MORE:
DISTRICT HEAD OF KABO, SARKIN GABAS OF KANO, IDRIS DANKABO, DIES IN AUTO CRASH
Eno remarked that the state’s Electricity Policy 2024 and Electricity Law 2025 establish the legal, regulatory, and policy groundwork to create the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Market. He highlighted the importance of cooperation between federal and state authorities, referencing a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Rural Electrification Agency to broaden electricity access throughout the state.
In representation of the Minister of Power, Chief Adedayo Adelabu, Chief Advisor Adedayo Ololin praised Governor Eno’s vision, emphasizing that success hinges on collaboration among federal, state, and local governments. He insisted that state initiatives must be in alignment with federal policies and underscored affordability as a crucial element in ensuring sustainable electricity access for all.
Happy
0 %
Sad
0 %
Excited
0 %
Sleepy
0 %
Angry
0 %
Surprise
0 %
0
0