Reps seek to revive Akwa Ibom’s abandoned 330kV Ikot Ekpene–Ikot Abasi power line

The National Assembly has pledged to collaborate with the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) to address funding constraints and community-related issues delaying the completion of the abandoned 330kV Double Circuit Ikot Ekpene–Ikot Abasi Transmission Line Project in Akwa Ibom State.The commitment was made by the House of Representatives Committee on Public Assets during an inspection of the project site. The delegation, led by Committee Chairman Hon. Ademorin Kuye, included members Tunji Akinosi, Jaafaru Yakubu, and Patrick Umoh. They met with NDPHC officials, the project contractor Anita Energy, and community leaders to assess progress and challenges.In a statement issued by NDPHC’s Head of Corporate Communication, Nazo Agim, lawmakers described the transmission line as a strategic national asset capable of strengthening the electricity grid, boosting supply to industries and households, and driving economic growth in Akwa Ibom and neighbouring states.Kuye explained that the inspection formed part of the committee’s investigation into abandoned federal projects, stressing that the transmission line—left idle for over six years despite significant investment—remains critical to Nigeria’s energy infrastructure.“We realised that NDPHC intends to continue with the project and the contractor is willing to return to site once outstanding challenges are resolved. This is a very important project not only for host communities but also for the economy of the state and the country,” Kuye said.Lawmakers commended host communities for safeguarding project materials despite the prolonged suspension of work. They urged NDPHC to expedite compensation payments to affected landowners to pave the way for the contractor’s return.Community leaders, including Chief Joseph Gall Udo of Adiasim Ikot, appealed to the Federal Government to settle outstanding claims and ensure the project resumes.The transmission line, part of the National Integrated Power Projects, is designed to evacuate electricity generated in the Niger Delta into the national grid. Once completed, it is expected to enhance power evacuation capacity, improve supply reliability, and stimulate socio-economic development across the region.

The House of Representatives is working to revive the abandoned 330kV Ikot Ekpene–Ikot Abasi Transmission Line Project, boosting Akwa Ibom power supply. Read More: https://punchng.com/reps-move-to-revive-abandoned-akwa-ibom-power-project/