How We Are Tackling Electricity Challenges In Delta – Oborevwori

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has outlined comprehensive measures being implemented by his administration to address persistent electricity challenges across the state, combining policy reforms with aggressive infrastructure development to boost power supply and stimulate economic growth.

Speaking during the inauguration of the 31-kilometre rehabilitated Ohoror–Bomadi Road on Tuesday, the governor revealed that several communities that had been without electricity for over a decade, have now been reconnected to the national grid, significantly improving living standards and opening up new economic opportunities.

Oborevwori explained that his administration is pursuing a proactive and structured approach to resolving power issues through the extension of 33KV transmission lines, installation of new transformers, and rehabilitation of critical electricity infrastructure in previously underserved areas.

“We are taking deliberate and practical steps to address power supply challenges across Delta State. Efforts are ongoing to extend 33KV lines, install transformers, and rehabilitate critical electricity infrastructure,” the governor stated.

He noted that the enactment of the Delta State Electricity Law, alongside the approval of the State Electricity Policy by the Executive Council, has provided a solid legal and institutional framework to confront power sector challenges more effectively.

The Governor said: “As a sub-national, we are fully aware of the power challenges in some parts of the state. With these policy instruments in place, we are better positioned to drive sustainable improvements in electricity supply”.

The governor further disclosed that a reputable electricity consulting firm has been engaged to drive the implementation of the administration’s MORE Agenda in the power sector.

According to him, the firm is currently conducting a comprehensive assessment of electricity infrastructure across the state, with a final report expected soon to guide further interventions.

Providing details of ongoing projects, Oborevwori said the government has extended 33KV overhead lines and installed six distribution transformers in Ode-Itsekiri, Orugbo, Ajigba, Inorin, Usele, and Ugbodede communities in Warri South-West Local Government Area. He expressed confidence that the project would be completed before the end of the year.

In Ndokwa East Local Government Area, the governor announced the upgrade of a 2.5MVA transformer to a 5MVA, 33/11KV injection substation at Agbarha-Otor, in Ughelli North, a development that has restored electricity to communities that had been in darkness for more than 10 years.

He added that similar interventions are ongoing in Ndokwa West Local Government Area, where distribution transformer substations are being provided to six communities to improve power distribution.

Oborevwori also disclosed that the rehabilitation of the collapsed 33KV high-tension line from Ogbe-Ogume to Kwale has been completed, while work is ongoing on the restoration of a 7.5MVA injection substation in Kwale, alongside the installation of additional distribution transformers.

According to the governor, efforts are also underway to revive long-abandoned power facilities in other parts of the state, with the State Executive Council already granting necessary approvals for the projects.

He attributed the progress recorded so far to supportive federal policies and acknowledged the role of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in creating an enabling environment for sub-national governments to improve infrastructure delivery.

“These achievements would not have been possible without the economic reforms and visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.

Beyond electricity, the governor disclosed that approvals have been granted for the construction of new police divisions across local government areas for State Police, as well as a state-of-the-art Special Protection Unit base to strengthen security architecture in the state. He directed the Ministry of Lands and Survey to commence land acquisition for the projects.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusive and participatory governance, Oborevwori assured residents that the MORE Agenda would continue to be implemented with fairness, justice, and equity.

He said: “We remain committed to delivering on our promises. We will continue to listen to the people, embrace constructive criticism, and work together in the true spirit of democracy”.