SAPELE/Nigeria: The Delta State Government has said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is deliberately laying the foundation for rapid industrialisation by ramping up investment in power generation, taking advantage of the new constitutional provision that grants states greater authority over electricity.
This position was made known by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, during a visit by the State Economic Management Team to Sapele Power Plc in Ogorode, Sapele Local Government Area.
Aniagwu explained that the governor’s move to expand the state’s energy capacity reflects a clear and coordinated strategy to drive industrialisation, attract investors, and create employment opportunities in line with his administration’s MORE Agenda.
“Energy is the bedrock of industrialisation. When Governor Oborevwori came on board, he recognised that to attract industries and create jobs, we must expand our capacity in power generation and distribution,” Aniagwu said.
He disclosed that the administration reviewed turbines and other equipment previously acquired and stored in Oghareki, Ethiope West Local Government Area, which had remained idle for years. Rather than dispose of the assets as scrap for about ₦3 billion, the governor opted for a long-term investment approach aimed at generating sustainable revenue and boosting electricity supply.
According to him, following feasibility studies conducted in collaboration with the Delta State Investment Development Agency (DIDA), the Ministry of Energy, and the Office of the Chief Economic Adviser, the state entered into a partnership with Sapele Power Plc to refurbish and integrate the equipment into the plant’s operations.
Aniagwu revealed that the facility, which already produces over 1,020 megawatts of electricity, is set to inject an additional 120 megawatts into the national grid upon completion of the refurbishment.
“The new capacity will come from two 60-megawatt Rolls-Royce Trent 60 Generating Turbines being installed at the plant. Instead of taking quick money and forgetting the future, the governor chose to invest for generations yet unborn,” he said.
“Today, we are talking about injecting 120 megawatts into the national grid. That is a wise and profitable decision that will benefit Delta State and the country in the long run,” he added.
Beyond increasing electricity supply, Aniagwu noted that the initiative is already generating employment opportunities and facilitating technology transfer, as local engineers and technicians are actively involved in fabrication and installation processes.
Commissioner for Energy, Engr. Michael Anoka, described the development as impressive, affirming that Governor Oborevwori has demonstrated strong commitment to meeting the energy needs of Deltans. He expressed confidence that the additional capacity would significantly address energy deficits and support industrial expansion.
Leading the delegation, the Chief Economic Adviser to the Governor, Dr. Barry Gbe, described the investment as a calculated and strategic move under the new electricity law, which now allows greater state participation in power generation and distribution.
Gbe disclosed that the state has constituted a committee, working with consultants, to liberalise the electricity market, encourage more players in generation, distribution and metering, and ensure affordable power for businesses and residents.
Also speaking, Chairman of DIDA, Chief Lucky Oghene-Omoru, said the initiative has transformed a previously dormant asset into a value-generating investment for the state. He commended Sapele Power Plc for its commitment to indigenous technology, cost reduction and job creation.
In his remarks, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of Sapele Power Plc, Mr. Valentine Ashinze, lauded Governor Oborevwori’s foresight and assured that the company would continue to support the administration’s vision of industrialising Delta State.
The visit by the State Economic Management Team underscored the administration’s integrated development strategy, linking infrastructure expansion, energy investment and investment promotion in a coordinated effort to position Delta State as a hub for sustainable industrial growth.
