The 188-megawatt Geometric Power plant in the Osisioma Industrial Layout of Aba in Abia State is now set for commissioning on Monday, February 26, 2024, as announced by the company’s management. Originally slated for inauguration on Saturday, February 24, by President Bola Tinubu, the new date was chosen by The Presidency in Abuja due to unforeseen developments.
President Tinubu will commission the 188-MW thermal plant alongside Aba Power Ltd, which will distribute electricity to nine of the 17 local government areas in Abia State.
Reacting to the decision, energy consultant Engineer Cliff Eneh stated, “A 48-hour difference is not significant. We are proud of the support the Federal Government has of late been giving to the Geometric Power integrated company.”
Describing the project as the biggest investment in the Southeast, Geometric Power has invested approximately $800 million in its integrated power project, including infrastructure like a 27-kilometre natural gas pipeline and extensive cable installations.
Managing Director of Geometric Power Ltd, Ben Caven, explained the project’s scope, including the installation of substations and refurbishment of inherited infrastructure.
Former NERC Commissioner, Patrick Umeh, praised the infrastructure’s quality, comparing it to facilities in advanced cities like Tokyo and San Francisco.
Geometric Power Group was founded by Professor Bart Nnaji, aiming to address Aba’s power challenges identified by global figures like former World Bank President James Wolfensohn and former Nigerian Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala during a visit in 2004.
The inauguration, according to Sir Alexander Maduakor, President of the Association of Aba Industrialists, “will mark a new dawn in the country, not just in Aba or Abia State”.
Amidst the anticipation surrounding the commissioning, there has been widespread recognition of the potential impact of Geometric Power on the region’s economy. Local entrepreneurs and industrialists are optimistic about the prospects of reliable electricity supply, which is expected to catalyze growth and innovation in various sectors.
Furthermore, the successful completion of the Geometric Power project underscores Nigeria’s commitment to addressing its energy infrastructure challenges. With the government’s support and private sector investment, initiatives like this demonstrate the nation’s capacity to harness its resources for sustainable development.
However, challenges remain, and stakeholders emphasize the need for continued investment in the power sector to meet the growing demand for electricity across the country. As Geometric Power sets a new standard for power generation and distribution, it serves as a beacon of hope for future endeavors aimed at ensuring energy security and driving economic prosperity nationwide. GMTNewsng
