Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Governor Alex Otti, on Monday, signed into law the Abia State Electricity Act recently passed into law by the State House of Assembly.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, during a press briefing on the outcome of the State’s Executive Council meeting.
According to him, Abia Electricity law is in fulfillment of Gov. Otti’s promise to establish a viable and reliable power-eco-system that will enhance the industrialisation of the state.
He described the law as a major milestone that sets Abia state ahead of other states of the federation.
The Government’s mouthpiece explained that with the planned signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU to buy 60 per cent stake in the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, EEDC, Abia would be able to feed the remaining eight Local Government Areas, LGAS of Abia Central and North in addition to wheeling power to other South-East states.
Recall that the Geometric Power owned by Professor Bart Nnaji, has been supplying power to the two LGAs in Aba metropolis, Osisioma LGA and its neighbouring councils, for about two years now.
On road infrastructure, Prince Kanu informed that work is ongoing in all the contract sites of the state and said that all the contractors are trying to take advantage of the dry season to ensure most of the projects are concluded before the rains set in.
He said that about 7 roads under the state direct labour project would be commissioned soon, adding that the roads include, Ndoki road, school road, among others.
Contributing, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Mr Matthew Ekwuribe, said that the state is blessed with lots of tourism sites, noting that if they are properly harnessed it will make Abia a viable place with huge potential to boost the state’s IGR.
He noted that the tourism sector is open for private sector participation, adding that the Ministry has initiated an Igbo programme “Oge Omenala” which provides opportunity for the people to talk about their rich cultural heritage on BCA, Real FM Radio among others between 11- 12 noon every Wednesday.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma was present at the briefing.
