The Bayelsa State government has ramped up efforts to establish independent power plants, aiming to achieve a stable and reliable electricity supply for the state, which currently depends on the national grid.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting with the leadership of Imiringi Community and representatives from Ogbia Local Government Area, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, the acting governor of Bayelsa State, emphasized the government’s commitment to improving power infrastructure. The meeting, which included the Obanobhan of Ogbia Kingdom, King Charles Ebinimi Owaba, took place at Government House in Yenagoa.
Senator Ewhrudjakpo announced that the state is partnering with Chinese investors to establish a new power plant. The proposed site is adjacent to the existing gas turbine managed by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) at Elebele. The new power plant is expected to generate approximately 60,000 Megawatts, significantly improving electricity generation and distribution within the state.
In addition to building new infrastructure, the Bayelsa State government has initiated plans to refurbish the state-owned Imiringi gas turbine located in Ogbia Local Government Area. This refurbishment project aims to restore the turbine to optimal performance and ensure a more stable power supply for residents.
According to Senator Ewhrudjakpo, this effort aligns with the Senator Douye Diri-led administration’s A.S.S.U.R.E.D. Agenda for the power sector. The administration’s focus includes enhancing power generation capacity to meet the growing energy needs of Bayelsa State.
Senator Ewhrudjakpo also revealed that plans are in place for a third power plant to further expand electricity generation and distribution. This proposed facility will cater specifically to Nembe, Brass, and Southern Ijaw Local Government Areas, ensuring these regions benefit from a steady and uninterrupted power supply.
During the meeting, the acting governor issued an unreserved apology to the people of Imiringi regarding the power ministry’s earlier attempt to remove turbine transformers for refurbishment without proper notification. Senator Ewhrudjakpo attributed the oversight to a communication gap between the Elebele community and the government, assuring stakeholders that such issues would be avoided in the future.
The Bayelsa State government’s proactive approach highlights its dedication to achieving energy independence and resolving the persistent power challenges facing the state. By leveraging partnerships with foreign investors and prioritizing the refurbishment of existing infrastructure, the administration is taking concrete steps to meet its power supply goals.
The new and refurbished power plants are expected to bolster economic growth, improve living conditions, and provide essential support to industries and businesses across Bayelsa State.
As Bayelsa State works toward achieving energy stability, the planned projects underline the government’s focus on sustainable and long-term solutions. The establishment of independent power plants will reduce the state’s dependence on the national grid, positioning Bayelsa as a model for energy development in Nigeria.
Through strategic investments and collaborations, the Senator Douye Diri-led administration remains committed to delivering reliable electricity, driving progress, and improving the quality of life for its citizens.
