By Azuka Offor
The Anambra State Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr. Casmir Agummadu has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at improving electricity supply and safeguarding power infrastructure across the state.
Engr. Agummadu gave the assurance while receiving the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First Power Limited, Engr. Okechukwu Okafor and members of his management team during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Power and Water Resources in Awka.
The Commissioner emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in addressing challenges within the power sector, pledging the ministry’s support in ensuring the success of First Power’s operations in Anambra State.
He noted that the ministry would continue to work closely with relevant security agencies, including Homeland Security, to combat the persistent vandalism of electricity infrastructure, describing it as a major threat to the growth and sustainability of the sector.
According to him, reliable electricity supply remains a critical driver of economic development, industrial growth and improved living standards for residents of the state.
Earlier, the Managing Director of First Power Limited, Engr. Okechukwu Okafor said the company’s vision is to bridge existing gaps across the electricity value chain and modernize the distribution network to provide efficient and reliable services to Ndi Anambra.
He identified network degradation, revenue leakages, energy theft and the vandalism of power installations as some of the major challenges confronting the electricity sector.
Engr. Okafor called for stronger collaboration between the company and the ministry, particularly in the areas of enforcement, protection of critical power assets and public sensitization on responsible electricity usage.
He advocated the establishment of a joint task force to prosecute vandals and individuals involved in meter bypass and energy theft, stressing that such illegal activities undermine investments, weaken service delivery and hinder the growth of the power sector.
The First Power boss also sought government support in enforcing right-of-way regulations to discourage trading activities and construction under high-tension power lines, while calling for greater collaboration in consumer education and awareness campaigns.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Power and Water Resources, Mr. Victor Ezekwo, commended the First Power management team for what he described as a thoughtful and insightful presentation.
Mr. Ezekwo noted that the relationship between the ministry and the company has remained cordial and productive over the years, adding that First Power’s efforts toward improving electricity supply across the state are commendable.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to sustaining the existing partnership, assuring the company of continued support in achieving the Anambra State Government’s vision for a more efficient and sustainable power sector.
The Permanent Secretary emphasized the need for all stakeholders to work together in building a reliable electricity system capable of supporting the state’s economic aspirations and development agenda.
Engr. Okafor expressed confidence in the development vision of the Anambra State Government, reaffirming First Power’s commitment to a long-term partnership aimed at delivering a modern, resilient and reliable energy sector for the benefit of Ndi Anambra.
Azuka Offor is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
