FGN Power Company strengthens state ties to accelerate PPI implementation in Ebonyi, Enugu
The FGN Power Company (FGNPC) is intensifying its push to reform Nigeria’s power sector, leveraging high-level strategic engagements with the Ebonyi and Enugu state governments to fast-track the first phase of the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI).
The FGN Power Company (FGNPC) is intensifying its push to reform Nigeria’s power sector, leveraging high-level strategic engagements with the Ebonyi and Enugu state governments to fast-track the first phase of the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI).
As the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) tasked with expanding Nigeria’s grid capacity by an incremental 4,000MW over the next three years, FGNPC is shifting focus toward sub-national partnerships to mitigate implementation bottlenecks.
Babatunde Daramola-Oniru, FGNPC’s Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), who led a delegation to Ebonyi and Enugu States to secure local buy-in for critical infrastructure projects. He stated that the technical success of the PPI—which utilises partnerships with Siemens Energy and contractors such as CMEC and Elsewedy Electric—is contingent upon the seamless integration of state-level support.
“The success of the PPI goes beyond technical execution; it is rooted in strong partnerships with state governments, host communities, and key stakeholders,” Daramola-Oniru said.
“Engaging stakeholders from the onset ensures local ownership, reduces implementation risks, and guarantees that these investments serve the people long after project completion.”
He explained that beyond technical installation, the buy-in of the state governments is necessary to secure Right-of-Way (RoW) for transmission lines, address encumbrances and environmental safeguards and security to mitigate vandalism of assets in project sites.
He added that by fostering 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.
In Ebonyi State, the focus is squarely on unlocking stranded capacity. The project pipeline includes the construction of the Ugwaji–Okposi 330kV double-circuit transmission line. According to Grace Umezurike, Secretary to the Ebonyi State Government, this infrastructure is a strategic necessity for the state’s industrial and social services.
“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,” Umezurike noted, pledging the state’s commitment to removing administrative bottlenecks.
In Enugu State, the PPI’s trajectory is being mapped against Governor Peter Mbah’s “Smart City” initiative. Chidiebere Onyia, Secretary to the Enugu State Government, emphasised that energy stability is the primary catalyst for the state’s digital and industrial aspirations.
“A robust and reliable power network is the prerequisite for the digital and industrial revolution we are building,” Onyia said. “Enugu is ready to support sectoral investments and provide the necessary cooperation to ensure FGNPC’s projects are a resounding success.”
