The Federal Government is finalizing plans to release funds for completing the Okpai Power Plant project. This development aims to improve electricity supply to Kwale and the entire Delta North Senatorial District in Delta State.
Senator Ned Nwoko disclosed this during a recent courtesy visit to the palace of the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge.
Located in Ndokwa East Local Government Area, the Okpai Power Plant recently expanded its capacity to 980 megawatts but has yet to provide electricity to its host communities. Senator Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, highlighted the project as a critical concern.
"Having met with the Minister of Budget and National Planning, they are considering making funds exceptionally available to complete the step-down process. We are making progress with the Federal Government," he said.
The Senator recalled that the Okpai Power Plant was commissioned in 2005 by then-President Olusegun Obasanjo to serve Delta North. However, the project has faced challenges in delivering on its promise of consistent electricity supply.
As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, Senator Nwoko emphasized that, with effective management, completing the Okpai project would significantly alleviate the region’s struggles with erratic power supply.
He also revealed that investors are keen on partnering with the Delta State Government under Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to enhance power infrastructure in the region. This initiative aligns with the implementation of the Electricity Act 2023, which is designed to attract private investment and support independent power projects.
"There are financiers who have approached me in Abuja, ready to fund these projects. They only ask for one thing—a guarantee to recover their investment over 20 to 24 years. With such guarantees in place, the projects will be implemented," Senator Nwoko assured the traditional rulers gathered at the palace.
In addition to addressing power issues, Senator Nwoko updated the Asagba on the Ogwashi-Uku Dam project, which he initiated during his tenure as a member of the House of Representatives.
Understanding the critical need for water in the region, Senator Nwoko explained, "The dam was designed for three purposes: household water supply, irrigation, and potential power generation. The Federal Government has completed the dam and handed it over to the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority for management."
He added, "This project will benefit up to 66 communities, including Asaba, Ubulu-Uku, Issele-Uku, and Umunede. It is vital for both domestic use and enabling year-round farming through irrigation."
Kenneth Orusi, Editor-in-Chief of The Story and Chairman of ICC, Delta NUJ, reported this development.
