FG to complete N6.8bn power transmission substation in December 2024

Akpan Umoh, Uyo

The 2X30/40MVA 132/33KV Power Transmission substation worth N6.8 billion in Ibiono Ibom in Akwa Ibom to improve power supply to the people will be completed by Dec. 2024.

Mr Suleiman Adeyemo, the Project Manager of the construction company, Legend Engineering Limited, disclosed this during the delivery of a key component of the substation in Ididep on Tuesday.

Adeyemo said the project which was handed over to the company on Feb. 2023 during a groundbreaking ceremony by the former Minister of State for Power, Prince Goddy Jedy Agba, has achieved significant milestones. 

He said that the funds provided were enough to acquire offshore equipment, including two transformers 2X30/40 KVA power transformers 133/33), major switch gears, VT, CVTs, and surge arresters, all of which have been procured and stored in containers.

He added that the construction of the perimeter fence was 90 per cent completed, adding that the process of jacking the transformer onto the plinths was in progress.

“We are very certain of completing the project before the end of the year, provided that sufficient funding is made available. The project is typically a 24-month endeavour, subject to funding availability.

“It was initially budgeted at N6.8 billion. However, only N500 million was released last year, which we have utilised to execute the project forward to its current state.

“The transmission power substation spans approximately 9 hectares of land and includes staff quarters and a control room. We currently have 209 drums of transformer oil and conservator tanks,” Adeyemo said.

Adeyemo added that they had completed the profile drawing and obtained approval and were currently working on the transmission lines.

He expressed optimism that once the substation is completed and a reliable power supply is established, many companies will be attracted to the area.

Adeyemo added that despite topographic challenges, with cutting and filling work of about 10 meters of the earthwork, they have equally completed the transformer plinths.

He said that the project facilitated by the former Presidential Adviser on Niger Delta Affairs, Sen. Ita Enang, was one of the best things to have happened to the people of the area in recent times