Sapele, Delta State, February 11, 2026 – Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has declared that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is deliberately positioning the state for accelerated industrial development by prioritizing massive investments in power generation. This strategic focus, he said, leverages the recent constitutional amendments that grant states greater autonomy and control over electricity matters.
The commissioner made the disclosure during an inspection visit by the State Economic Management Team to Sapele Power Plc in Ogorode, Sapele Local Government Area. The visit provided an opportunity to assess progress on the ongoing refurbishment and integration of state-acquired power generation equipment into the plant’s operations.
According to Mr. Aniagwu, Governor Oborevwori recognized early in his administration that reliable and expanded electricity supply is the bedrock of industrialization, investor attraction, job creation, and overall economic prosperity. “Energy is the foundation of industrial growth,” he stated. “When Governor Oborevwori assumed office, he understood clearly that to draw industries to Delta State and generate meaningful employment opportunities, we must significantly expand our capacity in power generation and distribution.”
The commissioner revealed that the administration inherited several turbines and associated equipment previously purchased and stored in Oghareki, Ethiope West Local Government Area, where they had remained idle for years. Rather than dispose of the assets as scrap—which could have fetched approximately ₦3 billion—the governor opted for a forward-looking, long-term investment strategy aimed at sustainable revenue generation and improved electricity supply for the state and the national grid.
Following comprehensive feasibility studies conducted in collaboration with the Delta State Investment Development Agency (DIDA), the Ministry of Energy, and the Office of the Chief Economic Adviser, the state entered into a formal partnership with Sapele Power Plc to refurbish and integrate the equipment into the plant’s existing infrastructure.
Mr. Aniagwu disclosed that Sapele Power Plc, already generating over 1,020 megawatts of electricity, is on track to add an additional 120 megawatts to the national grid upon completion of the current phase. This additional capacity will come from two 60-megawatt Rolls-Royce Trent 60 Generating Turbines being installed at the facility.
“Instead of taking quick money and forgetting the future, the governor chose to invest for generations yet unborn,” Aniagwu emphasized. “Today, we are talking about injecting 120 megawatts into the national grid. That is a wise, profitable, and visionary decision that will benefit Delta State and the entire country in the long term.”
Beyond increasing power availability, the initiative is already delivering tangible socio-economic benefits. The commissioner highlighted ongoing employment opportunities for local engineers, technicians, and artisans involved in fabrication, installation, and maintenance processes. He also noted the valuable technology transfer taking place, which strengthens local capacity in power sector operations and maintenance.
Commissioner for Energy, Engr. Michael Anoka, described the development as “impressive” and commended Governor Oborevwori’s strong commitment to meeting the energy needs of Deltans. He expressed confidence that the additional 120 megawatts would significantly alleviate energy shortages, support industrial expansion, and improve living standards across the state.
Dr. Barry Gbe, Chief Economic Adviser to the Governor and leader of the Economic Management Team, described the investment as a “calculated and strategic move” made possible by the new electricity law, which empowers states to participate more actively in generation, transmission, and distribution. He disclosed that the state has set up a dedicated committee, working with consultants, to liberalize the electricity market in Delta. The committee’s mandate includes encouraging private sector participation in generation, distribution, and metering, while ensuring affordable and reliable power for businesses, industries, and households.
Chief Lucky Oghene-Omoru, Chairman of the Delta State Investment Development Agency (DIDA), praised the administration for transforming a dormant asset into a revenue-generating and value-adding investment. He commended Sapele Power Plc for its emphasis on indigenous technology, cost efficiency, and job creation, noting that the partnership exemplifies smart asset management and sustainable development.
Acting Chief Executive Officer of Sapele Power Plc, Mr. Valentine Ashinze, lauded Governor Oborevwori for his foresight and visionary leadership. He assured the state government of the company’s full support in realizing the administration’s goal of industrializing Delta State through reliable and expanded power supply.
The inspection visit by the Economic Management Team underscored the Oborevwori administration’s integrated approach to development—linking critical infrastructure expansion, energy security, investment promotion, and job creation under the MORE Agenda (Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Economic Advancement). By harnessing the new constitutional provisions on electricity, Delta State is positioning itself as a leading hub for sustainable industrial growth in the Niger Delta and beyond.
As refurbishment work progresses at Sapele Power Plc, stakeholders anticipate that the additional 120 megawatts will provide a significant boost to industrial activities, attract new manufacturing and processing firms, reduce reliance on expensive diesel generators, and contribute meaningfully to national energy security.
Governor Oborevwori’s deliberate focus on power infrastructure is widely seen as a foundational pillar for transforming Delta into an industrial powerhouse, creating lasting prosperity for present and future generations of Deltans.
