The Managing Director/CEO of Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) Ltd., Engr. Jennifer Adighije, has stated that the N4 trillion debt the federal government is owing electricity Generation companies (GenCos) is affecting their performance to purchase gas and other operating cost.

Speaking during an inspection of the Egbema NIPP Power Plant by the House Committee on Power, led by its Chairman, Hon. Victor Nwokolo, Engr. Adighije appealed for a presidential intervention to facilitate funding for ongoing projects, settle outstanding payments and enhance electricity access nationwide.

She highlighted the broader challenges facing the power sector, particularly a liquidity crisis of over N4 trillion owed to generation companies (GenCos) but reiterated NDPHC’s commitment to advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of reliable, affordable electricity, positioning the company as the backbone of Nigeria’s power sector.

She stated that the inspection of the plant is to assess its progress and discuss challenges facing the project as well as the power sector at large.

In a statement by its General Manager, Communication & Public Relations, Olufunke Nwankwo, Engr. Adighije welcomed the delegation, emphasizing the significance of the Egbema Power, pointing out that the project consists of three generating units with an installed capacity of 375MW and that it was awarded to CMEC China Machinery Engineering Company in 2023, with completion targeted for end of the year.

She also mentioned that NDPHC is closely monitoring progress to ensure timely completion.

On his part, he Chairman of the House Committee on Power commended the NDPHC Management for their proactive approach in reviving the Egbema Power Plant, explaining that the project had faced delays due to litigation issues, but the new management and contractor have significantly accelerated progress.

He said from the inspection, approximately 60% of the work has been completed, bringing the project closer to commissioning.

Addressing broader sectoral concerns, he acknowledged the cash crunch in the industry but praised the President for signing the Electricity Act, which has improved the financial viability of the power sector.

He noted that new tariff structures are making the sector more attractive to investors and financial institutions.