Otti targets statewide light rail project following power generation milestone
Joseph Irikefe
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has unveiled an ambitious plan to revolutionize transportation infrastructure with the proposal of a groundbreaking light rail construction project spanning the entirety of the state.
This significant announcement comes hot on the heels of the inauguration of the 181-megawatt Geometric Power plant in Aba, the bustling commercial hub of Abia State.
In an nterview on the Thursday edition of “Politics Today” on Channels Television monitored by Advocacy Times, Governor Otti disclosed his administration’s ongoing discussions with a prominent Chinese company to materialize the ambitious light rail project, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to fulfilling key campaign promises.
“We are discussing with a Chinese company and the discussions are going on well. It is not going to be easy, but it is going to be done. It is not something that you will just start and finish today,” Otti affirmed during the interview.
The revelation was prompted by a question from the program’s anchor regarding Otti’s electoral pledge to initiate the construction of a light rail system if elected as governor of Abia State.
Governor Otti further expounded on the progress of the project, emphasizing that while challenges may arise, his administration is resolute in its determination to see the project through to fruition.
“Currently, the designs for the light rail project are in the process of being developed. We will move from there to address commercial issues, and at the end of the day, we will do it,” Otti asserted with confidence.
The proposed light rail project is poised to usher in a new era of economic development and connectivity for Abia State, which has long grappled with infrastructural deficits under previous administrations.
Meanwhile, Governor Otti has declared an end to the era of chronic power outages in the state following the recent commissioning of the 181-megawatt Geometric Power plant in Aba.
“Power outage will be the exception rather than the rule,” Otti declared emphatically during the interview, underscoring the transformative impact of the power generation milestone on the lives of Abia State residents.
The $800 million power project, spearheaded by Geometric Power Limited, boasts the capacity to generate and distribute sufficient electricity to significantly ameliorate the state’s power supply woes. A critical component of the project is the 27-kilometer natural gas pipeline vital for the plant’s operation.
Governor Otti recounted the project’s tumultuous history, shedding light on his involvement in securing funding for the initiative back in 2010. Despite encountering unforeseen challenges such as the sale of the Aba Invest Island and shifting priorities in gas supply, Otti remained steadfast in his commitment to overcoming obstacles and delivering on his promise of reliable electricity for Abia State.
Since assuming office in May 2023, Otti has prioritized resolving the lingering issues surrounding the power project and fostering collaboration with the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to ensure a consistent supply of natural gas.
Currently, the Geometric Power plant generates 141 megawatts of electricity, with plans underway to expand capacity to the full 181 megawatts upon the installation of the final turbine. Residents have already begun to experience the tangible benefits, enjoying extended periods of uninterrupted power supply.
This monumental achievement marks a turning point for Abia State, heralding a future characterized by reliable electricity and the potential for economic growth, particularly in Aba, the state’s industrial nerve center. Governor Otti has been lauded for his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to progress position Abia State on a trajectory towards prosperity and sustainable development.