Minister of State for Power, Goddy Jeddy-Agba, performed the ground-breaking for the construction of a 2×30/40MVA substation on behalf of President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday in Ibiono Ibom, Akwa Ibom.

The project, costing N6.8 billion, is expected to improve power supply to the area in fulfilment of the president’s campaign promises to Akwa Ibom.

“Contract for the engineering, procurement, and construction of the 2×30/40MVA substation at Ibiono Ibom in Akwa Ibom is expected to be executed in 18 months,’’ Mr Buhari said in his message to the ceremony.

Mr Buhari added that the project would improve service delivery and increase capacity to supply power to Akwa Ibom and neighbouring states.

He said the project would strengthen the national grid by increasing its wheeling capacity to 25,000 MW by 2025.

The president urged Akwa Ibom to provide all necessary support and assistance to ensure the prompt completion of the project.

In his remarks, Akwa Ibom Governor Udom Emmanuel pledged the state government’s support to complete the project on schedule.

Mr Emmanuel was represented by the Commissioner for Power and Petroleum Development, John Etim.

Earlier, Philip Okpanefe, Assistant Director (Transmission), Federal Ministry of Power, called on the community to cooperate and assist the contractor in ensuring prompt completion of the project.

Speaking on behalf of the community, Ita Enang, former Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Niger Delta Affairs, said the project would enhance the economic growth of the people.

(NAN)