June 04, (THEWILL) – President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday commissioned the 180-megawatt Afam II Power Plant in Oyigbo, Rivers State, lauding the successful collaboration between Sahara Power Group and Crescendough Nigeria Limited.
The plant, completed within 16 months and executed largely by Nigerian professionals, was developed by Sahara Power Group—a subsidiary of the global energy and infrastructure conglomerate, Sahara Group—in partnership with Crescendough.
Speaking during the virtual commissioning, President Tinubu described the project as a milestone reflective of Nigeria’s ingenuity and resilience.
“This power facility represents a key achievement born of the enterprising Nigerian spirit. It is a testament to what we can achieve through collaboration, perseverance, and renewed hope,” he said.
He praised Sahara Power Group—Africa’s largest private power firm—and Crescendough Nigeria Limited for transforming vision into reality. Tinubu also acknowledged the support of the Rivers State Government for initiating and enabling the project.
“I commend Sahara Power Group, First Independent Power Limited, and Crescendough for their investments and expertise. You have brought this vision to life. My administration remains firmly committed to achieving stable power and will continue to implement policies that protect investments and promote ease of doing business,” he stated.
Group Managing Director of Sahara Power Group, Kola Adesina, described the project as a symbol of impact and innovation.
“The Afam II project is more than just 180MW of power—it’s about transforming lives and responsibly bringing energy to life,” he said.
Adesina reaffirmed Sahara’s commitment to driving sustainable and uninterrupted electricity supply through strategic partnerships and innovation. He revealed that the company currently contributes over 20% of Nigeria’s electricity via Egbin Power and First Independent Power Limited, powering over 50 million homes and businesses.
“Our vision stretches beyond this milestone. We envision a globally competitive Nigeria, driven by sustainable energy,” Adesina said, also highlighting ongoing capacity expansion at Egbin Power, technological upgrades at Ikeja Electric, and upcoming renewable energy investments.
He expressed appreciation to the Presidency, Federal Ministry of Power, Rivers State Government, Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and host communities for their support in making the project a reality.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, pledged continued support to address gas supply issues and ensure nationwide power sustainability.
Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (retd), commended the completion of the project in record time.
“To Sahara Group and its partners, congratulations. You have demonstrated that indigenous enterprise is not only alive but thriving. Your faith in Rivers State and the Nigerian economy is clearly evident,” he said.
Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, described the Afam II plant as a landmark achievement underscoring the gains of private sector investment and power sector reforms.
Now fully operational, the 180MW facility is expected to significantly enhance national grid capacity and improve electricity supply to homes, businesses, and industries across the country.
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