NEWS
Abia Moves to Restore 50MW Grid Supply to Aba, Develops Alternative Gas Route for Geometric Power
The Abia State Government has announced significant progress in its efforts to strengthen and stabilise electricity supply to Aba and its environs, with up to 50 megawatts (MW) of grid electricity expected to be restored to the Aba Power network as an emergency backup.
The development, announced by the Ministry of Power and Public Utilities, followed recent engagements involving the Abia State Government, Geometric Power Aba Limited (GPAL), the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) and the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC).
According to the government, the planned restoration of the 50MW grid supply is designed primarily to provide a contingency source of electricity for the Aba Ring-Fenced Area, particularly during emergencies, while also strengthening the system’s ability to respond to the rapidly growing electricity demands of industries, businesses and households.
The move comes as the state intensifies efforts to build a more resilient and diversified power architecture for Aba, one of Nigeria’s major industrial and commercial centres.
Beyond the restoration of grid supply, the government disclosed that progress has also been made towards securing an alternative gas supply arrangement for the Geometric Power Plant, in collaboration with Geometric Power, NDPHC and other relevant stakeholders.
The proposed alternative gas supply route is expected to serve as a backup to the plant’s existing gas supply system, reducing the risks associated with reliance on a single source and helping to prevent disruptions in gas availability from unnecessarily affecting electricity generation.
The government considers the development particularly important to the future of Aba’s industrial economy, where reliable electricity remains critical to manufacturers, traders, artisans, businesses and households whose daily operations depend heavily on stable power.
The initiatives also form part of the broader economic development agenda of the administration of His Excellency Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, with the state government linking a more dependable electricity system to industrialisation, job creation, investment and improved living standards.
To achieve the objective, the Abia Government is continuing discussions with relevant Federal Government agencies, power-sector operators, gas suppliers and other strategic stakeholders on the technical, commercial and regulatory arrangements required to establish a more resilient electricity supply framework for Aba.
The government acknowledged the patience and understanding of electricity consumers, particularly industries, businesses and residents who rely on consistent power to sustain their livelihoods and operations.
The Ministry of Power and Public Utilities said it would continue to provide updates as work on the various initiatives progresses.
The state government also expressed appreciation to Geometric Power, NISO and NDPHC for their cooperation, technical support and contributions towards strengthening electricity supply and advancing Abia’s economic development.
The Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, signed the statement on behalf of the ministry.
With the planned 50MW grid backup and the development of an alternative gas supply option, the Abia Government says it is pursuing a power system built around reliability, diversification and sustainability, with Aba’s industrial and commercial economy at the centre of the strategy.