By SUNDAY ABBA, Abuja
The Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) has lamented the challenges bedevilling the Nigerian power sector, especially the liquidity crisis.
Managing Director/CEO of Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) Ltd Engr Jennifer Adighije highlighted this while hosting the House Committee on Power, led by its Chairman, Hon. Victor Nwokolo, on a site inspection of the Egbema NIPP Power Plant on Thursday.
According to a statement signed by Olufunke Nwankwo, General Manager, Communication & Public Relations, NDPHC, the inspection aimed to assess the progress of the ongoing project and discuss challenges facing it as well as the power sector at large.
Engr Jennifer Adighije welcomed the delegation, emphasising the significance of the Egbema Power Plant as a key project under the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP). She provided an overview of the plant’s status:
She pointed out that the project consists of three generating units with an installed capacity of 375MW and that it was awarded to CMEC China Machinery Engineering Company in 2023, with completion targeted for end of the year.
She added that NDPHC was closely monitoring progress to ensure timely completion.
Highlighting the challenges facing the sector in general, particularly that of liquidity which, according to her, had let to the electricity generating companies (GenCos) being owed over N4 trillion, she pleaded presidential intervention to facilitate funding for ongoing projects, settle outstanding payments, and enhance electricity access nationwide.
Speaking further, she reiterated NDPHC’s commitment to advancing Mr President’s vision of reliable, affordable electricity, as well as positioning the company as the backbone of Nigeria’s power sector.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Power commended the NDPHC management for their proactive approach in reviving the Egbema Power Plant, explaining that though the project had faced delays due to litigation issues, the new management and contractor have significantly accelerated execution progress.
From the inspection, approximately 60 per cent of the work has been completed, bringing the project closer to commissioning.
He expressed confidence that with proper funding, the contractors would deliver on schedule.
Addressing broader sectoral concerns, the lawmakers acknowledged the cash crunch in the industry but praised the President for signing the Electricity Act, which has improved the financial viability of the power sector.
He noted that the new tariff structures are making the sector more attractive to investors and financial institutions.
The Chairman further commended Mr President for his Renewed Hope Agenda and commitment to power sector reforms.
He also commended the Minister of Power for his leadership and efforts in advancing critical projects.
Commending the contractors for their commitment to steady progress, Hon. Nwokolo stressed that beyond electricity generation, the project would create jobs, enhance security, and contribute to economic growth in surrounding communities.
The Chairman also relayed the concern of Mr Speaker, House of Representatives, regarding developments in the power sector, as he assured that the National Assembly would continue to support and ensure proper budgetary allocation and its effective utilisation.
He hailed the strong relationship between NDPHC and the legislative committees on power, which has contributed to smoother legislative oversight and minimal public hearing issues.