NDPHC moves to revive 20-year Akwa Ibom power project

The Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC) is reinvigorating its efforts to complete the 330kV Ikot Abasi Transmission Line in Akwa Ibom State, which was initiated 20 years ago under the National Integrated Power Projects programme. NDPHC's Managing Director, Jennifer Adighije, disclosed this during a recent meeting with the state governor, Umo Eno, who requested the government's assistance in addressing community and compensation issues that have hindered the project's progress.

According to NDPHC, the project was awarded in 2006, but outstanding community and wayleave issues have been the main barriers to its completion. The company estimates that resolving these issues would cost slightly below N4 billion, with the contractor, Anit Energy, already having completed roughly 90% of the engineering, procurement, and construction work.

NDPHC has already deployed substantial project materials, including conductors and tower members, worth millions of dollars along the project corridor, but they are currently obstructed in several communities due to the ongoing dispute. NDPHC is optimistic that Eno's intervention will allow the contractor to resume work and complete the project by May 29, 2027.

The company is committed to Akwa Ibom's development, anticipating increased demand for electricity as investments in hospitality, commerce, and industry grow. NDPHC has also begun working with the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Regulatory Commission to explore unlocking the potential of the assets and extending electricity access to underserved communities.