Geometric Power's recent commendation of the Abia State government underscores the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving economic growth. The company's laudatory letter to the government was sparked by the state's efforts to resolve disruptions in the gas supply chain, which had caused outages in the Aba Ring-fence area. Governor Alex Otti and his team worked closely with Geometric Power's management and staff to address the issue.
The disruptions in the gas supply chain were attributed to the aged gas pipelines built between 50 and 60 years ago, which had been affected by protracted litigation and drying up of investments in the gas facilities for years. The situation worsened after The Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) exited Oil Mining Licence (OML) 17 in Owaza in Ukwa West LGA in Abia State, and Heirs Energies took over the operatorship. Governor Otti's intervention helped to resolve the disruptions and restore power supply.
The Abia State government's efforts to support Geometric Power are not new. Every governor of the state, including Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has played a significant role in helping the company succeed for the benefit of the Abia people. However, Governor Otti's contributions are particularly noteworthy, given his background as an executive director with First Bank and later as Managing Director of Diamond Bank, where he was involved in promoting the Aba Independent Power Project.
The Aba Independent Power Project, which was commissioned on February 26, 2024, by Vice President Kashim Shettima, is a socioeconomic game changer in the state. The project, which cost almost $800m, has the potential to drive economic growth and create jobs. President Goodluck Jonathan had expressed surprise at the humongous expenditure on the project during a visit to Geometric Power on March 24, 2015, and pledged to resolve the problems facing the project.
Despite the challenges faced by Geometric Power, the company has continued to work towards providing reliable power supply to the Aba Ring-fence area. The company's management has expressed gratitude to Governor Otti and his team for their efforts in resolving the disruptions and ensuring a stable power supply. The development highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in driving economic growth and development in Nigeria.
The laudation by Geometric Power is a testament to the Abia State government's commitment to creating a conducive business environment. The government's efforts to support the company have paid off, as the power project is now providing reliable power supply to the area. The development is expected to have a positive impact on the state's economy and improve the quality of life for its residents.
Key points
- The Abia State government's support for Geometric Power has ensured reliable power supply in the Aba Ring-fence area.
- The Aba Independent Power Project has the potential to drive economic growth and create jobs in the state.
- Public-private partnerships are critical to driving economic development in Nigeria.
