The House of Representatives Committee on Public Assets has pledged to work with the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) to resolve funding constraints and lingering community issues delaying the completion of the abandoned 330kV Double Circuit Ikot Ekpene–Ikot Abasi Transmission Line Project (Lot 18T).
Chairman of the Committee, Honourable Ademorin Kuye, gave the assurance after leading members of the committee on an inspection of the project site, where they assessed the level of work completed and held discussions with community leaders, the engineering, procurement and construction contractor, and NDPHC officials.
Kuye said the visit was part of the committee’s ongoing investigation into abandoned Federal Government assets and projects to ensure that public investments are not wasted, adding that the transmission line was identified as one of several critical infrastructure projects that could be revived to support economic growth and improve electricity supply.
The lawmaker added that both the NDPHC and the contractor have expressed readiness to complete the project once outstanding challenges are addressed.
He said, “In the course of our investigation into government assets and projects, we observed that some have been abandoned over the years despite the huge investments committed to them. We felt those investments should not go to waste, so we decided to identify projects that can be resuscitated and understand what led to their abandonment.
“We realised that there is an intention on the part of NDPHC to continue with the project. We also found that the contractor is willing to return to site and complete the work. This is a very important project not only for the host communities but also for the economy of the state and the country.”
Kuye added that the project, when completed, would improve electricity infrastructure, boost businesses, support farmers and artisans, enhance security and stimulate socio-economic development across Akwa Ibom State and neighbouring areas and commended members of the host communities for safeguarding project materials despite the prolonged suspension of work.
“We were told that the materials needed to complete the project are already on the ground and we wanted to verify that ourselves. Honestly, I must commend the people of the community for the way they have secured these assets. The wires, towers and other materials have been protected, which shows a high level of cooperation and commitment to seeing the project completed.
“We want to implore NDPHC that everything necessary should be done, particularly the payment of the outstanding compensation. Some payments have already been made, but the balance should be settled so that the community can allow the contractor to return to site and complete the project.
“We are doing everything humanly possible to ensure that this project is completed. We will synergise with the Federal Government, the state government and the local government to ensure this project is delivered for the benefit of the community,” Kuye added.