Diri Urges Patience on Bayelsa Independent Power Project
...⁶Expresses Confidence in Technical Partners, BECL MD
Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has appealed to residents to exercise patience over the ongoing installation of the state’s Independent Power Project, assuring that the delay experienced would not derail its successful completion.
The 60-megawatt gas turbine project, which commenced in October, was initially scheduled for completion in December but suffered logistical setbacks that necessitated a review of the timeline.
The governor called on Bayelsans to keep an open mind, explaining that the project now requires a new completion date due to unforeseen technical challenges.
Governor Diri made the appeal on Wednesday during an on-the-spot assessment of the project site at Elebele. He acknowledged public disappointment over the missed December deadline, noting that he shared the same feelings but chose understanding over anger, especially amid criticisms on social media.
“You can see that I have gone round the entire facility. It was based on the working agreement and information available to me that I announced the December date,” the governor said. “But as with every human endeavour, particularly technical projects of this nature, there can be challenges.”
“I am as disappointed as any other Bayelsan because I believed we would celebrate the 2025 Christmas with our own independent power supply. Unfortunately, that did not happen,” he added.
Governor Diri urged residents to appreciate the efforts of the engineers on site, stressing that a minor error could jeopardise the millions of dollars already invested in the project.
“For 29 years, Bayelsa has endured darkness and epileptic power supply. Now that we are close to liberation, some people have become impatient. Let us not behave like the proverbial tortoise that, after years in prison, suddenly complained about the smell on the eve of its release,” he cautioned.
He commended the technical partners, Jampur Group, as well as the Managing Director of the Bayelsa Electricity Company Limited, Olice Kemenanabo, for their dedication, noting that work had continued uninterrupted since commencement.
“Those who have followed this inspection will know that work has not stopped for a single day. The project is more than 90 per cent complete. So let us hold our fire,” the governor said.
“Engineer Olice, I am not putting you under any pressure. From available reports, he is one of the best electrical engineers in Nigeria.”
Governor Diri also hinted that the state government was considering inaugurating the project during its sixth anniversary in February.
Speaking earlier, Kemenanabo assured that Bayelsa was on course to actualise the project, stating that the alignment of the entire system, including the gas generator and alternator, was progressing as planned. He added that the remaining two turbines were expected to arrive at the project site within a few days.
On behalf of the Jampur Group, Sherrif Abu-Anif expressed confidence in the project’s delivery, commending the Bayelsa State Government for fulfilling its obligations and supporting the contractors effectively.
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