Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has made a heartfelt appeal to residents, urging them to exercise patience regarding the ongoing installation of the state's landmark independent power project. The governor assured the public that the long-awaited facility is in its final stages, despite encountering logistical hurdles that pushed it past its initial December completion target.
Project Details and Governor's On-Spot Assessment
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, Governor Diri provided an update on the 60-megawatt gas turbine project located in Elebele, Ogbia Local Government Area. The installation work, which kicked off in October 2024, was originally slated for conclusion in December but faced unforeseen technical challenges.
During a personal inspection of the site on Wednesday, the governor acknowledged sharing the disappointment of Bayelsans over the missed deadline. He, however, called for understanding from the citizens. "It was based on the working agreement and information available that I gave the December date. But as it is with every human endeavour, we must all have an open mind, particularly with technical matters like this," Senator Diri stated.
Over 90% Complete and Round-the-Clock Work
Governor Diri emphasized that the project is now more than 90 per cent complete. He praised the relentless efforts of the engineers and technical partners who have been working day and night to bring the project to fruition. Specific commendation was given to the Jampur Group and the Bayelsa Electricity Company Limited, led by Managing Director Engr. Olice Kemenanabo.
"Those who have been following me on this inspection would know that work has not stopped even for one day since it started. So let us hold our fire. From the reports I have, Olice is one of the best electrical engineers in Nigeria," Diri added, vouching for the team's expertise and dedication.
A Long-Awaited Liberation from Darkness
Reflecting on the state's protracted struggle with unreliable electricity, the governor painted a vivid picture of the past 29 years. "For 29 years Bayelsa has been in darkness or endured epileptic power supply. Now that we are getting close to the day of liberation, some people have become impatient," he remarked.
He used a local proverb to drive home his point for patience, comparing the situation to a tortoise who, after years in prison, demanded immediate release upon smelling freedom just one day before its scheduled release.
Governor Diri hinted that the state government is considering inaugurating the project during its sixth-anniversary celebrations in February 2025.
Contractors Reaffirm Commitment
On the technical front, Engr. Olice Kemenanabo provided assurances that the critical alignment of the gas generator and alternator is progressing as planned. He also confirmed that the remaining two turbines are expected to arrive at the Elebele site within a matter of days.
Speaking for the Jampur Group, Mr. Sherrif Abu-Anif expressed the company's readiness to meet all its obligations. He also commended the Bayelsa State Government for faithfully fulfilling its own part of the contractual agreement, ensuring the project's momentum is maintained.
