Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has approved the development of a 10-megawatt Independent Power Project (IPP) for Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu, as part of his administration’s drive to solve electricity challenges within the university and surrounding communities.
He made the announcement on Thursday in Otamkpa, Isuikwuato Local Government Area, during a meeting with Hon. Lucky Johnson, the lawmaker representing Isiukwuato Constituency, who officially joined the Labour Party from the Peoples Democratic Party.
Otti stated that the power initiative aligns with the new Abia State Electricity Law, which empowers the state to independently develop power projects without external approvals. “A few weeks ago, we signed the Abia State Electricity Bill into law, so we no longer need to go to anybody for approval to set up renewable energy or IPP, whether integrated power or standalone,” he said.
The governor revealed that the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency (ASERA) is being established to supervise and regulate energy projects across the state. He added that the agency will be led by an experienced Abia-born professional who has managed similar projects in Canada. Emphasising his government’s commitment to lasting solutions, Otti declared, “We are saying that the days of darkness are over, and you know, once light comes in, darkness takes flight.”
Beyond energy, Otti reaffirmed his commitment to holistic infrastructure development, particularly in road rehabilitation. “We do not want potholes in Abia State; we want smooth driving, and we are going to gradually get to all the roads,” he said.
The announcement drew praise from stakeholders present. Hon. Amobi Ogah, representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency, and Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Mr. Emmanuel Emeruwa, described Otti as a visionary leader deserving of support. Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna, Commissioner for Justice, remarked that the governor’s achievements have surpassed expectations.
Community leaders also welcomed the news. Chief Chidiebere Uguru, President General of the Isuikwuato Development Union, and Dr. Chidi Mba of the Uturu Development Union expressed gratitude for the project. Dr. Onyinyechi Rufus-Obi of the Greater Ohafia Development Authority (GODA) called it a “welcome development” that would boost economic activities and improve living standards in the region.
Once completed, the 10MW power project is expected to serve as a blueprint for state-driven electricity solutions in Nigeria, showcasing the potential of decentralised energy reform at the subnational level.
