The Delta State Government is set to address the persistent issue of unreliable electricity with the introduction of the “Light Up To Industrialise Delta Initiative,” unveiled by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in Asaba. This initiative represents a significant effort to implement a comprehensive programme designed to provide uninterrupted electricity supply throughout the state, thereby fostering industrial development.
Mr. Sunny Ekedayen, the State Commissioner for Economic Planning, detailed the strategic plan spearheaded by Governor Oborevwori’s administration to position Delta as a leading industrial centre powered by stable electricity.
These statements emerged from a crucial meeting held at the Government House, Asaba, on Wednesday, involving Governor Oborevwori, alongside officials from Power Acumen Consulting Ltd (PACL), Detail Solicitors, and Nigeria Infrastructure Bank (NIB).
Ekedayen announced that Governor Oborevwori has officially sanctioned the engagement of Power Acumen Consulting Limited. Their mandate is to conduct a thorough assessment of Delta State’s current electricity framework.
He further explained that this assessment follows extensive fieldwork undertaken by the consultants since late 2025, which involved engaging with various stakeholders and identifying infrastructure and institutional deficiencies across the entire power sector value chain.
The consultant's interim report, which highlighted the need for a substantial revision of the state's electricity laws and policy framework, was submitted, indicating deep-seated structural problems that the government is now prepared to confront.
Ekedayen confirmed that a detailed and practical roadmap is expected within the coming weeks. A central element of the reform will involve the establishment of a State Electricity Commission to oversee and regulate the developing power sector.
He assured citizens that tangible improvements in electricity supply would soon become evident for Deltans.
In addition, the Commissioner for Energy, Mr. Michael Anoka, elaborated on the operational structure of the initiative, characterising it as a "bold and transformative programme" intended to unlock Delta's industrial potential.
Anoka highlighted that the state plans to leverage its existing power generation capabilities, particularly from the Okpai and Ughelli facilities, where substantial electricity output currently remains underutilised.
"Our focus is primarily on efficient transmission and distribution, rather than generation," he stated, indicating the government's objective to achieve 24-hour electricity supply in Asaba and Warri within the next year, before extending the project to other parts of the state.
He also revealed ongoing collaborations with Power Acumen Consulting and the Benin Electricity Distribution Company to enhance distribution networks, alongside plans to develop a distinct State electricity grid.
This new approach is anticipated to optimise the delivery of power from various generation sources, including Okpai, Transcorp Ughelli, and Sapele.
Anoka emphasised that electricity is fundamental to industrialisation and that the initiative is designed to act as a catalyst for economic transformation, job creation, and increased investment.
The Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Fidelis Tilije, reaffirmed the state government's steadfast commitment to providing the necessary financial resources for all stages of the initiative, asserting that funding will not pose a challenge.
He stressed the critical role of consistent power supply as a foundation for industrialisation, reiterating the administration’s dedication to ensuring the project's success through adequate financial backing.
Representing the financial perspective, Managing Director of Infrastructure Bank Plc, Erhabor Okogun, affirmed that Delta possesses the financial capacity and resources essential for undertaking large-scale infrastructure development.
Providing further technical insights, Engr. Matthew Edevbie of Power Acumen Consulting Ltd (PACL) underscored the vital importance of electricity for sustainable development, referring to it as the "lifeblood" of any prosperous economy.
Drawing on over two decades of experience in the sector, he noted that significant industrial progress is impossible without dependable power. He stressed that genuine economic advancement must be deliberately integrated with social equity and environmental sustainability to achieve growth that is both inclusive and lasting.
He assured that, as technical partners, Power Acumen Consulting Limited would ensure thorough planning, execution, and oversight for all project phases, especially the crucial twelve-month rollout period. This approach aims to establish a robust foundation for long-term success and position Delta State as a benchmark for power-driven industrialisation within Nigeria.
Comments (0)
You must be logged in to comment.
Be the first to comment on this article!