By January this year, the site on Elebele Road in Yenagoa was just a swampy stretch of land. But today, it has turned into a busy construction zone as the Bayelsa State government intensifies efforts to complete its gas turbine power project, which promises to provide uninterrupted electricity across the state capital by December 2025.
During an inspection of the project, the director of Operations at Bayelsa Electricity Company Limited, Mr Steve Bubagha, said it reached approximately 85 per cent completion.
He revealed that six of the eight gas turbines required for the project have already arrived in the state, while the remaining two are en route.
“Virtually every part of Yenagoa will benefit from what we are doing. We are at an advanced stage of locating the turbines properly, and once that is completed, we’ll move on to installing the accessories.
“The electrical reticulation of the 33kV network is already 95 per cent done. Once the turbines are fully installed, we will begin pre-commissioning,” he said.
Bubagha also assured that the government is working to make electricity metering affordable for all residents, adding that the project will ensure a stable power supply across the state capital.
Meanwhile, the technical adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Wisdom Ikuli, commended Governor Douye Diri for his commitment to fulfilling his promise of lighting up Bayelsa.
He noted that the transformation of the once bushy area into a massive power project site within a few months shows the governor’s determination to deliver tangible results.
“By January this year, this place was swampy and undeveloped. But today, the progress speaks for itself. The governor promised that before the end of this year, Bayelsa will enjoy 24-hour uninterrupted electricity, and that promise is gradually becoming a reality.”
Ikuli also emphasised the wider economic benefits of the project, predicting that steady power will attract investors, revive struggling businesses, and boost the state’s hospitality sector.
“Light brings life, and when there is power, businesses thrive. Many business owners are already preparing to expand because they see hope. Once the lights come on, more investors will relocate to Bayelsa, and the economy will grow rapidly.”
He further urged residents to prepare to pay for electricity, noting that no part of the country enjoys free power.
“Even in Aso Rock, people pay for electricity. The gas used to power the turbines is purchased, so people should expect to contribute a small amount. It’s nothing compared to what we spend on fuel, diesel, and solar energy every day,” Ikuli stated.
