By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Government has commenced the clearance of the right of way for the long-stalled 132kV electricity transmission line project in Umuogbo-Obiofia, Nnewichi, Nnewi North Local Government Area, in a renewed effort to improve electricity supply to the area and its neighbouring communities.
The exercise, which signals a fresh push by the Soludo Administration to revive the critical power infrastructure, was led by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barr. Chijioke Ojukwu, alongside the State Commissioner for Power, Engr. Casmir Agummadu, during a recent joint inspection of the project site.
Reports have it that the 132kV transmission line project, which had remained abandoned for several years, is expected to significantly strengthen electricity supply to Nnewichi and adjoining communities upon completion, while also supporting industrial, commercial and socio-economic activities in the area.
Speaking during the inspection, Barr. Ojukwu said the government had commenced the identification and marking of structures encroaching on the designated right of way to pave the way for the seamless execution of the project.
He stressed that the Soludo Administration remained committed to enforcing physical planning regulations and ensuring that illegal developments do not obstruct critical public infrastructure.
According to him, the government will not allow encroachments to frustrate a project designed to improve electricity supply, stimulate economic growth and enhance the welfare of residents.
The Commissioner explained that restoring the transmission line project would not only improve power distribution to Nnewichi and neighbouring communities but also encourage investment, boost productivity among businesses and industries, and improve the overall quality of life of the people through more reliable electricity.
Also speaking during the inspection, the Commissioner for Power, Engr. Agummadu, described the transmission line project as a strategic investment in the state’s power infrastructure, noting that its completion would significantly improve electricity evacuation and distribution capacity within Nnewichi and adjoining communities.
He said the Soludo Administration remains committed to removing every obstacle preventing or delaying critical electricity projects across the state, stressing that the revival of the 132kV transmission line aligns with the government’s broader agenda of strengthening energy infrastructure, attracting investments, supporting industrial growth and ensuring that residents and businesses enjoy more stable and reliable electricity supply.
The inspection, according to the team, forms part of ongoing efforts to remove all obstacles delaying the completion of the strategic electricity project and ensure that the benefits of stable power supply reach the affected communities as soon as possible.
