By Nelson Egware
There is renewed optimism across communities in the Ndokwa region as the Delta State Government initiates concrete measures to restore electricity to long-neglected areas.
The assurance was given on Sunday by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, during a live appearance on Arise News’ "Morning Show".
Speaking with confidence and clarity, Mr. Aniagwu addressed what he described as a common misconception surrounding the electricity crisis, noting that the entire Ndokwa area is not affected.
He clarified that the issue primarily concerns communities such as Ogume, Ugiliamai, Umusadege, Utagba-Uno, and Utagba-Ogbe.
According to him, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has already approved the extension of a 33kV electricity line from Abraka to these areas, a move aimed at restoring stable power supply that has been absent for several years.
Aniagwu revealed that the state government has awarded the contract for the project and that the contractor has already commenced work.
The power line will pass through Ogume and Ugiliamai, eventually reaching the affected communities, providing them with a reliable electricity supply for the first time in a long while.
He emphasized that this intervention is more than just infrastructure, it represents a commitment to improving the lives of people in the area by enabling economic activities, education, healthcare, and general productivity.
The Commissioner explained that the decline in electricity infrastructure across these communities was not sudden.
"Following the privatization of Nigeria’s power sector, many residents defaulted on payments, leading to mass disconnections. This disuse made it easier for criminals to vandalize power installations, including transformers and high-tension cables, knowing the lines were no longer live.
"Though many of the old utility poles still stand, the infrastructure was stripped bare, leaving behind only remnants of a once-functional power network.
"In response, the state government has developed a plan to re-electrify these areas by building a new power corridor.
"This includes not only laying fresh lines but also clearing the right-of-way and installing step-down transformers to ensure safe and efficient distribution to the local communities."
Aniagwu affirmed that the project is part of Governor Oborevwori’s broader commitment to rural development and equitable access to basic services.
When pressed for a timeline, Aniagwu stated that residents can expect significant progress within the next six months. “The contract is not just signed; work has started,” he said. “You’ll begin to see tangible changes very soon, certainly before the next half of the year.”
He also acknowledged recent federal efforts to deregulate the power sector, giving states greater autonomy to intervene where necessary.
According to him, Delta State is already taking full advantage of this opportunity and is not waiting for federal bureaucracy to catch up.
The governor’s proactive approach, he noted, shows a clear understanding that electricity is central to development.
As work progresses, the communities of Kwale, Ogume, Ugiliamai, Umusadege, Utagba-Uno, and Utagba-Ogbe can look forward to more than just the return of light, they can anticipate the return of economic hope, community life, and meaningful progress. For many in Ndokwa, the darkness is finally beginning to lift.
