BY OGECHI EJIOFOR
After more than two decades in darkness, the Umueziogoli Community in Ebedei, Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State, can finally heave a sigh of relief as PowerGas Ebedei Limited (PEL) has completed and commissioned a 500KVA transformer project to restore electricity to the area.
The electrification project, which commenced in 2024, culminated yesterday with the installation and commissioning of a 500KVA transformer, high-voltage connection to the 33KV federal grid, and low-voltage distribution lines. The project was donated by PowerGas Ebedei Limited and coordinated by the PowerGas Ebedei Management Committee (PGMC) with contractor Jeno Nigeria Electrical.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Managing Director of PowerGas Ebedei Limited, Mrs. Lanre Odusote, represented by the Plant Manager, Engineer Mike Okolo, described the feat as a “significant milestone” for both the company and the host community.
“Electricity is the lifeblood of any community; it powers homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses. It fuels economic growth, enhances living standards, and promotes development,” she said.
“This project is a testament to our commitment and a promise of a brighter future for all. It reflects one aspect of our broader mission to contribute meaningfully to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly energy access.”
Mrs. Odusote also reaffirmed PowerGas’s commitment to sustainable community development in line with its General Memorandum of Understanding (GMOU) with host communities. She lauded the cooperation of the Umueziogoli people and urged continued collaboration to ensure the sustainability of the company’s operations.
Representing the Chairman of Ukwani Local Government Area, Barr. Ajede Possible, the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Nomnazu Osondu, praised PowerGas for its social investment initiative, describing it as a model of public-private partnership.
“This is a powerful statement of what private-sector collaboration can achieve,” he said.
“By this project, PowerGas has changed the sad narrative of infrastructural stagnation in our old communities. The company has opened Umueziogoli to real socio-economic transformation.”
He further called on other corporate entities operating in Delta State to emulate PowerGas’s example in contributing to rural development.
Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of Jeno Nigeria Electrical, Engineer Emmanuel Jibunoh, whose firm executed the project, commended both PowerGas and the community for their teamwork and support throughout the process.
“Even when we faced hitches, everyone came together. The transformer has been operational for two months now, serving the people effectively. I pray it continues to do so for years to come,” Jibunoh said.
Speaking with the Pointer, the Onu-Eze of Umueziogoli, Chief Felix Ojugbeli, expressed gratitude to PowerGas for transforming the community’s fortunes.
“For over twenty years, we lived in darkness. When PowerGas came, we hoped things would change, and they did. The company has employed our youths, kept to its MOU promises, and now brought light to our homes. We are deeply grateful,” he said.
