Jubilations as FGNPC partners Ebonyi, Enugu States to accelerate Presidential Power Initiative Phase 1

By Onu Okorie

It was a welcome development in both Ebonyi and Enugu States as the Management of FGN Power Company FGNPC unveiled the critical power projects in the two states in efforts to accelerate Phase 1 of the Presidential Power Initiative PPI, aimed at transforming Nigeria’s energy landscape.

This is following high-level engagements with the Ebonyi and Enugu State Governments and Management of FGN Power Company FGNPC which reaffirmed its commitment to strategic stakeholder collaboration. FGN Power Company FGNPC is a Special Purpose Vehicle SPV mandated to implement the Presidential Power Initiative PPI. FGNPC’s mission is to address infrastructural gaps by investing in end-to-end solutions that will deliver reliable, incremental energy to customers in Nigeria.  

The delegation, led by the Chief Commercial Officer CCO of FGNPC, Mr. Babatunde Daramola-Oniru , met with the Secretaries to the State Governments SSGs, Commissioners of Energy, and key representatives to deepen alignment and ensure the seamless execution of vital power infrastructure projects within both states.

Speaking during the engagement, the Chief Commercial Officer CCO of FGNPC, Mr. Babatunde Daramola-Oniru, emphasized that early and sustained collaboration is the cornerstone of infrastructure sustainability. “The success of the PPI goes beyond technical execution; it is rooted in strong partnerships with state governments, host communities, and key stakeholders,” said Mr. Daramola-Oniru. “Engaging stakeholders from the onset ensures local ownership, reduces implementation risks, and guarantees that these investments serve the people long after project completion.”

In Ebonyi State, the focus remains on critical infrastructure, including the construction of the Ugwaji–Okposi 330kV double circuit transmission line to unlock stranded capacity and strengthen grid reliability. This project is set to significantly boost evacuation capacity across the network to improve power supply to businesses and homes. 

Welcoming the initiative, the Secretary to the Ebonyi State Government SSG,Prof Grace Umezurike stated: “We wholeheartedly welcome these projects and pledge our full support to ensure they are delivered on schedule. In Ebonyi, the significance of this intervention cannot be overstated; it is the backbone required to power our international airport, our hospitals, and our schools. We are committed to removing any bottlenecks to ensure our people reap these benefits quickly.

“In Enugu, the PPI projects are viewed as a foundational element of the state’s urban renewal and economic goals. The Secretary to the Enugu State Government SSG, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia highlighted the synergy between FGNPC’s mission and the Governor’s agenda: “This partnership aligns perfectly with Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah vision to transform Enugu into a modern Smart City.

A robust and reliable power network is the prerequisite for the digital and industrial revolution we are building. Enugu is ready to support sectoral investments and provide the necessary cooperation to ensure FGNPC’s projects are a resounding success.”FGNPC is mandated to support the Federal Government’s objective of increasing Nigeria’s grid capacity by an additional 4,000MW over the next three years. This will be achieved through targeted investments in the transmission and distribution segments, in partnership with Siemens Energy and globally recognized Engineering, Procurement, and Construction EPC contractors like CMEC, Elsewedy Electric etc.

Beyond technical installation, FGNPC emphasized the vital role of State Governments in: Securing Right-of-Way RoW for transmission lines.

Addressing encumbrances and environmental safeguards. Security to mitigate vandalization of assets in project sites. By fostering these sub-national partnerships, FGN Power Company continues to bridge the gap between policy and impactful delivery, ensuring a more reliable power supply for all Nigerians.