Jonathan inaugurates multi-billion naria mega water scheme in Ebonyi …Performs groundbreaking of Independent power project

President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday, inaugurated a multibillion naira mega water scheme in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State built by Governor Martin Elechi.

The President, who also performed the groundbreaking of the 2790/3900 mega watts Ebonyi Independent Power Plant project also in Ikwo Local Government Area, described the projects as the first of its kind in the history of the country.

He was represented by the Minister of Power, Prof Chinedu Nebo, who recalled that the Jonathan administration,  approved the privatisation of the companies that gave room for the public private partnership in establishment of  life touching projects.

Prof Nebo expressed happiness over the project, which he said, was in line with the transformation agenda of the Federal Government.

“When Mr. President heard the capacity of Ebonyi Independent Power Project, he was touched because no state in the federation has ever dreamt about it.

He was excited, but it is very clear from all indications that Governor Martin Elechi was not acting alone.

‘‘I believe very strongly that for the governor especially of Ebonyi State to conceive an idea as huge as 2,700 mega watts of electricity in a country that is dreaming of 4,500 mega watts, it has to be divine.”

This is to show that a small state like Ebonyi can become the giant  power producer in Nigeria,’’ he said.

According to him, one of the key factors of President Jonathan Transformation agenda is delivery of power to the people of Nigeria.

 Nebo said ‘’it took a lot of boldness, courage, single mindedness, commitment for President Jonathan to make sure that the Privatization Exercise was carried to the logical conclusion’’.

 He expressed optimism that the Independent Power Project when completed and the

Multi-Million naira Mega Water Scheme sighted in the area which he inaugurated will change the economic fortune of the people and the State in general.

Governor Elechi in his remarks commended the President through the minster of power for performing the exercise which he said was dream come through.

 He said there were endless meetings with the Transmission Company of Nigeria, the Gas Company of Nigeria and the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission leading to the issuance of license for the Independent Power Plant project.