Communities in the Ndokwa region of Delta State are set to experience a long-awaited return of electricity, as the state government begins implementation of a major power restoration initiative.
The update was shared by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, during a live appearance on Arise News’ Morning Show on Sunday.
Addressing public concerns about the scope of the power outage, decades after despite contributing hugely to the national till, Aniagwu clarified that work is progress, as the entire Ndokwa area is not affected.
He further clarified that the issue primarily concerns communities such as Ogume, Ugiliamai, Umusadege, Utagba-Uno, and Utagba-Ogbe, leaving out the entire oil-rich Ndokwa East local Government Area where 19 out of 22 clans remains in pitch darkness.
He also disclosed that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has already approved a new 33kV line extension from Abraka to the affected communities, as part of the government’s broader commitment to rural development and infrastructure renewal.
“This isn’t just a plan, the contract has been awarded to a certain contractor, and work is already underway.
“We are not waiting on promises. The goal is to reconnect these communities and give them a fresh start, ”Aniagwu said.
The new line, he explained, would pass through Ogume and Ugiliamai, restoring power to areas that have suffered years of neglect, vandalism, and failed infrastructure.
According to the commissioner, the situation in Ndokwa is the result of systemic breakdowns that followed the privatisation of Nigeria’s power sector.
”As residents struggled with electricity bills, many were disconnected. With power installations no longer live, vandals moved in, stripping transformers, lines, and cables.
“The utility poles are still there, but the network was gutted, the system collapsed quietly,” he said.
To reverse the decay, the state government is not only laying new lines but also clearing right-of-way routes and installing transformers to ensure safe and reliable distribution.
Aniagwu noted that this isn’t just about restoring electricity, but reviving livelihoods and boosting essential services like healthcare, education, and small businesses.
He said, “Electricity brings life. It enables schools to function, hospitals to operate effectively, and businesses to grow”.
This intervention will change the story of these communities, ” he said.
He projected that significant milestones would be achieved within the next six months, and assured residents that progress would be visible well before mid-2026.
Aniagwu also praised recent federal reforms that allow states to take greater control of their electricity needs.
He noted that Delta State was already leveraging these changes, choosing action over bureaucracy.
According to him, we are not waiting for federal instructions. Governor Oborevwori is leading with foresight, he understands that power is not a luxury, it is a necessity.
As work begins in earnest, communities across Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West and Ukwuani are beginning to hope again, not just for light in their homes, but for a renewed chance at economic growth and community development.
For the people of Ndokwa ethnic nationality, the avoidable darkness may soon be a thing of the past.
