The Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) has called for presidential intervention to resolve the staggering N4 trillion debt owed to electricity Generation Companies (GenCos), which is severely affecting the progress of ongoing power sector projects.
The company also confirmed that the Egbema Power Station, with a capacity of approximately 375 megawatts (MW), is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Managing Director/CEO of NDPHC, Jennifer Adighije, disclosed this during a site inspection of the NIPP Egbema Power Plant by the House of Representatives Committee on Power.
Highlighting the challenges confronting the sector, particularly the liquidity crisis caused by unpaid debts to GenCos, Adighije urged for urgent intervention to facilitate funding for ongoing projects, clear outstanding payments, and improve nationwide electricity access.
Welcoming the delegation, she underscored the importance of the Egbema Power Plant, describing it as a key project under the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP). The facility comprises three generating units with a total installed capacity of 375MW and was awarded to CMEC China Machinery Engineering Company in 2023, with completion set for the year’s end.
Adighije assured that NDPHC is closely monitoring developments to ensure the project is completed on schedule. She reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the President’s vision of delivering reliable and affordable electricity, positioning NDPHC as a crucial player in the power sector.
Legislative Support and Progress on Egbema Power Plant
The Chairman of the House Committee on Power, Hon. Victor Nwokolo, commended the NDPHC management for their proactive efforts in reviving the Egbema Power Plant. He noted that previous delays were due to litigation issues, but the new management and contractors have significantly accelerated the project.
Following the inspection, it was revealed that approximately 60% of the work has been completed, bringing the project closer to commissioning. Nwokolo expressed confidence that, with adequate funding, contractors would deliver the project on schedule.
Addressing broader concerns, he acknowledged financial constraints within the industry but praised the President for signing the Electricity Act, which has improved the sector’s financial viability. He highlighted how the implementation of new tariff structures has made the industry more attractive to investors and financial institutions.
The Minister of Power and the contractors working on the project were also praised for their dedication and contributions to its steady progress.
Beyond electricity generation, the project is expected to create jobs, boost security, and stimulate economic growth in surrounding communities. The House Committee on Power emphasized the Speaker’s keen interest in power sector developments and reassured that with proper funding, the Egbema Power Plant would soon be fully operational and align with other functional plants nationwide.
Commitment to Power Sector Development
Discussing budgetary allocations and sector funding, Nwokolo expressed optimism about financial support through the supplementary budget. He commended the President for increasing the sector’s budget, which he described as a testament to his commitment to power sector development. He assured that the National Assembly would ensure funds are efficiently utilized without distortions.
He also emphasized the strong collaboration between NDPHC and legislative committees, which has led to smoother oversight processes and minimal public hearing issues.
The inspection reaffirmed the commitment of both the Executive and Legislative arms of government to strengthening Nigeria’s power sector. The House Committee on Power expressed confidence in NDPHC’s leadership and pledged continued legislative support to address funding challenges and ensure the timely completion of projects.
NDPHC remains steadfast in its mission to expand power generation capacity, bolster national energy security, and drive economic growth. The site inspection served as an opportunity to evaluate ongoing progress and address challenges confronting the power sector.
