December 31, (THEWILL) — The Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has called for patience regarding the ongoing installation of the state’s independent power project (IPP).
The 60-megawatt gas turbine project, which saw installation begin in October 2025, was originally scheduled for completion in December but has encountered logistical delays.
Governor Diri made the appeal on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, during an on-the-spot assessment of the project site at Elebele in Ogbia Local Government Area.
He expressed his own disappointment that the initial deadline was not met but urged citizens to remain optimistic as technical teams address unforeseen challenges.
“I am as disappointed as any other Bayelsan because I believed we were going to celebrate the 2025 Christmas with our own independent power,” the Governor stated.
“But as with every human endeavor, particularly technical matters of this scale, we must maintain an open mind. These experts are working virtually 24 hours a day.”
The Governor implored the public to appreciate the precision required for the project, noting that even minor technical errors could jeopardize the millions of dollars invested.
Drawing a comparison to the state’s long history of power struggles, he added, “For 29 years, Bayelsa has endured epileptic power supply. Now that we are getting close to the day of liberation, let us not become impatient.”
Governor Diri commended the technical partners, Jampur Group, and the Managing Director of the Bayelsa Electricity Company Limited (BECL), Engr. Olice Kemenanabo, for their round-the-clock efforts.
He noted that the project is currently over 90% complete and hinted at a new inauguration target coinciding with the administration’s sixth anniversary in February 2026.
Engr. Kemenanabo assured the Governor that the alignment of the entire system, including the gas generators and alternators, is on course.
He further confirmed that the final two turbines are expected to arrive at the site within a few days. Mr. Sherrif Abu-Anif, representing the Jampur Group, expressed confidence in the partnership and thanked the state government for its continued support.
THEWILL reports that this 60MW project is a cornerstone of the “Prosperity Agenda,” aimed at providing 24-hour uninterrupted electricity to Yenagoa and its environs to stimulate industrial growth.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
