Professor Kalu Diogu, a former President of World Igbo Congress has thrown more light to the newly commissioned Geometric Power Project located in Aba, Abia State.
Speaking on the importance of the private sector energy investment initiative, Prof. Diogu in a chat with newsmen said former Abia State Governor, Orji Uzor Kalu played a tremendous role in making the project a reality.
“The story of Geometric power cannot be explained without the tremendous impact of former Governor Orji Uzor Kalu. I know the sacrifices and the critical role played by him, especially trying to make sure that the project remained in Aba.
“I recall the challenges of getting the land and paying for it. I accompanied Prof. Barth Nnaji to those events and I know Dr Orji Uzor Kalu played a tremendous role in making a reality. It’s good for our people and Nigerians to know.”
Sen. Kalu ruled Abia from 1999-2007 before handing over power to Theodore Orji.
Recall that Vice-President Kashim Shettima on Monday last week inaugurated the 188-megawatt geometric power plant in Aba, Abia state, to accelerate power supply to industrial clusters in the region.
The power plant, described as the first integrated electricity facility in Nigeria, is located in the Osisioma industrial area of the south-eastern state.
It is understood that Aba Power Limited Electric, a new electricity distribution company (DisCo), will take electricity from the plant and supply it to nine local government areas — out of 17 — in Abia state.
Described as the biggest investment in the south-east zone of Nigeria, geometric power is said to have spent about $800 million on its integrated power project, which includes the building of a 27-kilometre natural gas pipeline, from Owaza in Ukwa West LGA in Abia to the Osisioma industrial layout in Aba.