The Bayelsa State Government says the installation of the 60-megawatt gas turbines in the state has reached 85 percent completion.
The Technical Adviser to the Governor on Media and Public Affairs, Mr. Wisdom Ikuli, disclosed this on Wednesday while conducting journalists around the project site in Yenagoa.
He explained that the gas-powered project, initiated to enhance electricity supply across the state, had recorded significant progress since its approval earlier in the year.
“By January this year, this place was bushy and swampy. But between January and now, you can see what is happening,” Ikuli said. “The power that the governor promised before the end of this year — 24 hours of uninterrupted electricity in Bayelsa State — is gradually coming to reality.”
He noted that six out of the eight gas turbine units had already arrived the state, while the remaining two were en route.
According to him, two transformers, switch gears and other major components have also been installed as part of efforts to meet the December 2025 deadline set by Governor Douye Diri for the project’s completion.
Ikuli expressed optimism that the completion of the project would boost the state’s economy, attract investors, and improve nightlife and hospitality businesses.
“People will relocate from neighbouring states to Bayelsa. Hospitality businesses will improve. Power is a general problem in this country, but we are sure of power with Governor Diri. This project is not an audio project,” he added.
He also clarified that residents would be expected to pay for the electricity consumed, saying there was no part of the country where power was free.
“Even people in Aso Rock pay for electricity. The gas is bought and converted to power, and consumers will pay a minimal rate compared to the cost of fuel and diesel,” he said.
READ ALSO: Bayelsa Govt Buys Two Aircraft for Commercial Flights
Corroborating Ikuli’s statement, the Director of Operations, Bayelsa Electricity Company Limited, Steve Bubagha, confirmed that the project had reached 85 percent completion.
Bubagha said metering would soon begin across Yenagoa, assuring that the system would make electricity more affordable and reliable for residents.
“Virtually every nook and cranny of Yenagoa will benefit. We have six turbines on site and are expecting two more. After installation and pre-commissioning, we’ll have a full-blown power plant,” Bubagha said.
He added that electrical reticulation of the 33kVA network was already 95 percent completed, with work ongoing to balance the plant and install additional accessories.
“The governor has been consistent in his commitment to this project. Once installation and balancing are completed, Bayelsa will begin to enjoy stable power supply,” he assured.
The project, according to government officials, aligns with Governor Diri’s “Prosperity Agenda”, aimed at industrializing the state through sustainable infrastructure and energy access.