Light up Imo: Govt intensifies stakeholder’s Engagement

Austin Okoro DDM NEWS

In its efforts to light up Imo state, Government has continued to engage various stakeholders across communities.

The Commissioner for Power recently met with members of Imo state House of Assembly urging them to reach out to their various constituents as to gain support for the Light up Imo project.

This is stated in a release of March 1st 2025 by Collins Ughala SA to the governor on Public Orientation.

The statement read:” In its commitment to illuminate homes and businesses and launch the state into economic prosperity, the Imo State government has intensified stakeholder engagement, seeking cooperation for the success of the Light Up Imo Project.

To this effect, the Commissioner for Power and Electrification, Hon. Engr. Nwabueze Oguchienti, on Wednesday, 27 February, met with members of the Imo State House of Assembly in a closed-door session, urging them to reach out to their constituents and communities to gain support for the Light Up Imo Project.

The Light Up Imo Project, an initiative of Governor Hope Uzodimma, aims to provide constant power supply throughout Imo State.

This crucial initiative will significantly impact the state’s industrialisation efforts and benefit all 27 local government areas, with the goal of providing 24-hour power supply.

By year-end, Imo State is projected to achieve 70% energy capacity as the Light Up Imo Project moves towards improving the state’s economy and living standards.

During the meeting with assembly members, the Commissioner thanked them for the speedy passage of the Power Reform Bill, extolling them as true development partners.

The Commissioner explained that phase one of the project involves installing transmission and distribution lines across the state.

This includes a 50-kilometre 132KV line from Egbu to Orlu and from Egbu to New Owerri.

He informed the members that Orashi Electricity Company and its technical partners are currently working but face challenges from communities as the project requires transmission routes.

He urged the assembly members to continue their partnership with the state government and engage constituents to support the project,

He added, “The first phase of the Light Up Imo project aims to install a comprehensive 132KV transmission and distribution lines network across the state.

This project holds great promise for boosting economic growth, improving living standards, and fostering development.

To ensure the success of this visionary initiative, the state government is calling for unwavering cooperation from communities and stakeholders.

As lawmakers and representatives of the people, you are much closer to them, and you can easily reach out to them to get them to support this massive project.

This is what Imo State needs to leapfrog to a glorious economic era, and the government needs all hands on deck.

“The Light Up Imo project is not merely about illuminating streets and residences; it represents a transformative move towards powering up the economy and enhancing opportunities for businesses and residents alike.

The efficient supply of electricity is essential for industrial growth, attracting investments, creating job opportunities, and improving overall quality of life.

“By cooperating with the state government on this crucial project, communities and stakeholders will be actively contributing to the sustainable development of the state.

Their support in the implementation of Phase One of the project will not only ensure its timely completion but also lay the foundation for future phases that will further enhance the state’s energy infrastructure.

“Through the establishment of a robust transmission and distribution lines network, Imo State will not only overcome the challenges of power shortage but also position itself as a beacon of progress and prosperity.

The successful execution of the Light Up Imo project will unlock a plethora of opportunities across various sectors, stimulating economic growth and empowering the state to achieve new heights of success.

“It is on this note that the government is calling on communities and stakeholders to join forces with the Imo State government in realizing the full potential of the Light Up Imo project, and the honourable members of the state assembly, as genuine partners in progress, have a role to play.

The collaboration and support of all Imo people are integral to achieving a brighter and more prosperous future for Imo State and its residents.”

Assembly members expressed excitement about the project’s prospects, particularly as the governor advances industrialisation programmes.

They thanked the governor for the initiative and the Commissioner for the briefing, promising to do their part.

The Majority Leader, Hon. Chief Kanayo Onyemaechi, representing Owerri West, thanked the governor for installing a MOBITRA (Mobile Transmission line) in Obinze Community opposite the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO).

He recalled that contractors handling the MOBITRA encountered community challenges, which were resolved following interventions from his office and the state government.

The Majority Leader expressed satisfaction that the MOBITRA is well-established in Obinze and will provide power to surrounding communities and beyond once commissioned.

He urged community members and stakeholders to support the project, emphasising its importance to the entire state.

In his speech, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Honourable Chike Olemgbe also thanked the governor for the initiative and the commissioner for finding time to brief the House.

He assured that the House will continue to partner with the state government for the overall good of the people of the state, adding that electricity brings development and progress,”

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