June 18, (THEWILL) – The Bayelsa Electricity Company Limited (BEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to completing the ongoing 60MW gas turbine power project at Elebele community in Ogbia Local Government Area before the end of 2025.
This was disclosed by the Director of Operations of BEC, Engr. Steve Bubagha, during a guided tour of the project site with journalists in Elebele.
He revealed that the project has reached approximately 70 percent completion, noting that the pace of work indicates the December deadline is achievable.
“Just three weeks ago, many of these structures were not in place. Today, the control room is nearly ready, buildings have been erected, pipes laid, and headers for gas supply are already in position. We have made substantial progress,” Bubagha said.
He added that switch gears, instrumentation valves, and the warehouse facilities have also been installed.
The base for the power transformers is nearly completed and the transformers are expected to arrive by the end of June. He further projected that the gas turbine would be fully operational between July and August.
“We are working diligently. If the basement is completed this week, the switch gears will be installed next week. With the transformers arriving by month’s end, we are confident the turbine will be ready by August,” he added.
Bubagha credited the administration of Governor Douye Diri for prioritizing the project and ensuring its timely execution, saying the governor had consistently reiterated that electricity supply from the plant should begin before the end of the year.
Also speaking, the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity (Print), Mr. Wisdom Ikuli, said the project would significantly transform the state’s economy and improve the living conditions of residents.
According to him, “This 60MW project is a game changer.
It will attract businesses, create jobs, reduce dependence on diesel generators and solar power, and improve access to stable electricity for homes and industries.”
Ikuli described the project as a key part of Governor Diri’s Assured Prosperity Agenda, aimed at sustainable development and economic growth.
He also drew a comparison between the governor’s developmental strides and the legacy of late Melford Okilo, a former Governor of the old Rivers State.
He further highlighted other infrastructure initiatives being championed by the Diri administration, including the Nembe-Brass road, the Yenagoa-Agiama-Otuan-Oporoma road, the Glory Drive, and the Imgbi Bridge.
These, he said, are collectively geared towards repositioning Bayelsa for greater socio-economic advancement.
Residents of Elebele and surrounding communities have welcomed the project with relief, hopeful that the improved power supply will end years of erratic electricity in the state.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
