BY AKUDORO GLORIA
The Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) has highlighted liquidity as a major crisis facing power sector and sought presidential intervention on the over ₦4 trillion owed to generation companies (GenCos) to expedite projects completion which will accelerate electricity access across the country.
Engr. Jennifer Adighije, Managing Director/CEO of NDPHC made this call when the House Committee led by Hon. Victor Nwokolo conducted a site inspection of the Egbema NIPP Power Plant in Imo State on Thursday 27th March, 2025.
A statement issued by NDPHC’s General Manager, Communication and Public Relations, Olufunke Nwankwo, indicated that the inspection aimed to assess the progress of the ongoing 375MW project awarded to CMEC China Machinery Engineering Company in 2023 with completion target by end of 2025.
The DG who discussed the challenges facing the project and the power sector, noted that offsetting the ₦4 trillion owe to GenCos will not only facilitate funding for ongoing projects but would support settling outstanding payments, and enhance electricity access nationwide.
Engr. Adighije who welcomed the delegation, emphasized the significance of the Egbema Power Plant as a key project under the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP).
The DG, while providing an overview of the plant’s status which is about 60% to completion, reaffirmed NDPHC’s commitment to advancing Mr. President’s vision of reliable, affordable electricity and positioning the company as the backbone of Nigeria’s power sector.
She noted that NDPHC is closely monitoring progress to ensure timely completion.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Power, Hon. Nwokolo commended the NDPHC management for their proactive approach in reviving the Egbema Power Plant. He acknowledged the litigation challenges that the project had faced and praised the new management and contractor for significantly accelerating the progress.
He expressed confidence that with proper funding, the contractors will deliver on schedule.
Addressing broader sectoral concerns, he acknowledged the cash crunch in the industry but praised the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the Electricity Act, which has improved the financial viability of the power sector.
He noted that new tariff structures are making the sector more attractive to investors and financial institutions.
The Chairman who extended gratitude to Mr. President for his Renewed Hope Agenda and commitment to power sector reforms, also commended the Minister of Power for his leadership and efforts in advancing critical projects.
Sen. Nwokolo further thanked the contractors for their dedication to ensuring steady progress, while emphasizing that beyond electricity generation, the project would create jobs, enhance security, and contribute to economic growth in surrounding communities.
He relayed the concern of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas regarding developments in the power sector. He assured that Egbema Power Plant, with adequate funding, will soon reach full operational capacity and align with other functional power plants.
On budget and sector funding through the supplementary budget, the Chairman expressed optimism and commended Mr. President for increasing the sector’s budget, reflecting his commitment to power sector development.
He vowed that the National Assembly will not distort allocations, ensuring funds are effectively utilized and underscored the strong relationship between NDPHC and the legislative committees on power, which has contributed to smoother legislative oversight and minimal public hearing issues.
The House Committee on Power expressed confidence in NDPHC’s leadership and assured continued legislative support to address sector challenges, particularly in securing adequate funding for project completion.