By Daniel Edu

President Bola Tinubu has issued a decisive directive to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to expedite the completion of a crucial 350-megawatt power project in the Federal Capital Territory. The project forms a part of the broader 7,350MW Gwagwalada Independent Power Plant, considered pivotal to Nigeria’s economic progress.

During the Presidential Groundbreaking ceremony in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized the significance of a robust power sector in driving the nation’s economy forward. The president highlighted that the establishment of this power plant stands as his administration’s primary bold initiative. He urged NNPCL and other pertinent agencies to ensure timely completion of the project within three years.

Tinubu restated his unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of Nigerians, pledging to eliminate obstacles hindering power distribution. His vision is to make electricity stable and universally accessible. The president referred to his campaign promises of positive change for Nigerians and declared that the early commencement of this project illustrates the administration’s determination to alleviate power-related challenges.

Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL, underscored Nigeria’s abundant natural gas resources, boasting over 209 trillion cubic feet of proven reserves and a potential of over 600TCF. He emphasized that the power project presents an opportunity for the country to capitalize on its rich natural gas endowment, thereby extending greater access to energy, fostering economic growth, industrialization, and job creation across the nation.