Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has approved the construction of a 10-megawatt Independent Power Project (IPP) to serve Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu, in a move aimed at resolving persistent electricity supply issues affecting the campus and nearby communities.
The announcement was made during a political gathering in Otamkpa, Isuikwuato Local Government Area, where the governor emphasized the significance of uninterrupted power supply to educational institutions and their host environments.
According to Otti, the initiative aligns with his administration’s newly enacted electricity legislation, which grants the state full autonomy to establish and manage energy infrastructure without external approvals.
He also revealed that the state government is currently in the process of establishing the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency (ASERA), which will oversee the operations of both renewable and non-renewable energy projects within the state.
The power facility, once completed, is expected to benefit both the academic community and the surrounding Uturu town, providing a reliable energy source to power learning, research, and local economic activities.
The governor noted that an energy expert of Abia origin with international experience has been appointed to lead the regulatory body. The administration believes this step will ensure professional oversight and sustainability of energy reforms in the state.
In addition to the IPP, the governor outlined plans to complement the energy upgrade with broader infrastructure developments, including comprehensive road rehabilitation across the state.
During the event, several stakeholders commended the project, describing it as a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to modernize public institutions and uplift rural communities.
Representatives of local development unions expressed optimism that the power project would improve education outcomes, enhance healthcare services, and create a better business environment for residents.
When operational, the 10MW facility is expected to serve as a model for state-driven electricity solutions in Nigeria, offering a glimpse into how decentralized power generation can reshape learning environments and local economies.
