In a bold move to address power supply challenges across Abia State, Governor Alex Otti has announced plans by his administration to acquire the Umuahia ring-fenced area of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC). This strategic move, he said, is aimed at delivering stable electricity to the eight local government areas in the state not currently covered by Geometric Power.
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Governor Otti made this disclosure on Monday during the commissioning of the newly built substations of Geometric Power at Ogbor Hill, Aba. The event was graced by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who reflected on his role in the establishment of Geometric Power as Nigeria’s first indigenously owned and operated integrated power generation and distribution company.
Recalling the genesis of the project, Obasanjo said he granted a licence to the then Minister of Power, Prof. Barth Nnaji, to operate the Geometric Power plant in Aba out of a firm belief in Nigeria’s ability to harness local talent for national development. He said his decision was driven by the need to reverse the decline of commerce in Aba, a city once famed for its industrial prowess.
“When I was giving you the encouragement, two people asked why I was entrusting Nigerians with such a responsibility. They feared disappointment—but you have not disappointed me or those who supported you,” Obasanjo stated.
He commended Prof. Nnaji’s dedication and consistency and urged Geometric Power to consider extending its electricity distribution to other parts of Abia State.
In his remarks, Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to resolving the power crisis in the state. He revealed that the installed capacity of Geometric Power currently stands at 141 megawatts—sufficient to meet the needs of Aba and its environs. However, he pointed out that the state of infrastructure inherited at the substations was severely dilapidated and could not have handled fresh power input without a complete rebuild.
“We have concluded plans to take over the EEDC infrastructure within the Umuahia ring fence to complement Geometric Power’s reach and ensure that all nine LGAs in the coverage area enjoy uninterrupted power,” Otti said. He added that effective governance requires the state to step in when the private sector falls short, especially in such a critical sector.
The governor also urged traditional rulers in Osisioma LGA to take ownership and protect the power infrastructure within their communities, stressing that sustainable electricity supply is key to tackling poverty, unemployment, and underdevelopment.
Prof. Barth Nnaji, Chairman and CEO of Geometric Power Group, described the journey to delivering reliable power in Aba as one of “dedication and strategic investment.” He praised Obasanjo for his foresight and lauded Governor Otti for providing the enabling environment to realise the dream.
“We are working closely with the Aba business community and stakeholders to meet consumer demand,” Nnaji noted.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of Aba Power Limited, Barr. Ugochukwu Opiegbe, outlined several steps the company has taken to enhance power service delivery in the city.
In her vote of thanks, the Group Managing Director of Geometric Power, Agatha Nnaji, highlighted the broader vision of the company.
“This has always been about more than just electricity—it’s about unlocking Aba’s potential and powering long-term growth and prosperity,” she said. “We remain committed to delivering reliable, sustainable energy for generations to come.”
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