Electricity reform driving imo’s trillion-dollar vision – Uzodimma

Electricity reform driving Imo’s trillion-dollar vision — Uzodimma

By Hussaini Ibrahim

OWERRI, Nigeria — Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has identified reliable and affordable electricity as the non-negotiable foundation for building a trillion-dollar economy in the state, as he unveiled a major power infrastructure project aimed at boosting productivity and economic growth.

Uzodimma spoke during the commissioning of the Orashi Electricity Company Limited 15MVA, 33/11KV Injection Substation in Owerri, an event performed by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu.

The project marks the first phase of what the governor described as a bold and strategic power initiative designed to energise homes, businesses, and industries across Imo State.

According to the governor, the substation will support a 45-kilometre electricity distribution network, delivering more stable power supply, reducing the cost of doing business, and easing the long-standing hardship caused by epileptic electricity in the state.

“Building a trillion-dollar economy for Imo State rests on one critical pillar: dependable energy to power both our macro and micro economies,” Uzodimma said.

He attributed the progress to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reforms in the power sector, particularly the signing of the Electricity Act, which empowers states to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity independently. Uzodimma also highlighted the President’s approval for the transfer of the long-abandoned Egbema Power Plant to Imo State as a major boost to the state’s quest for energy sovereignty.

The governor noted that the project is strategically located within the Orashi Energy Free Trade Zone and is supported by an estimated 200 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves, positioning Imo as a future energy hub in the South-East.

He added that the power initiative is expected to serve all 27 local government areas of the state, stimulate industrial activity, attract investment, and promote sustainable economic growth.

Uzodimma reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to leveraging local resources and policy reforms to transform Imo State into a competitive economic destination, stressing that stable electricity remains central to improved livelihoods, job creation, and long-term development.