FG reaffirms commitment to Ndokwa IPP step-down project after high-level meeting
The leadership of the Ndokwa National Union (NNU) announced that it successfully met with Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, in Abuja on Tuesday, 25 November 2025, securing renewed assurances on the long-delayed Independent Power Plant (IPP) step-down substation intended to supply electricity to Ndokwa communities.
The meeting, arranged with the assistance of Rt. Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi and supported by his colleague in the House of Representatives, brought together senior figures including the Chairman of the House Committee on Power, Rt. Hon. Victor Nwokolo, and the federal lawmaker representing Ndokwa Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Ezechi.
The NNU delegation was led by its President General, Comrade Chief Amechi Asugwuni, who described the engagement as productive and encouraging after years of stalled progress on the project.
According to details released after the session, federal authorities reiterated that the IPP step-down substation has not been abandoned.
Officials explained that the Federal Government had already fully funded the project’s Letter of Credit, but the work encountered delays caused by bureaucratic procedures, funding constraints, and the need for approvals covering several technical components and variations.
The Minister assured the delegation that these outstanding approvals are expected to be completed before the end of the first quarter of 2026, which would allow the project to move into its next phase.
The Power Ministry further confirmed that Ndokwa Nation will not have to wait for the completion of the IPP’s second phase before receiving electricity.
The Minister stated that the current installed capacity at the IPP can accommodate the power requirements for Ndokwa once the step-down facility is completed.
This commitment, the NNU leadership noted, represents a significant step toward delivering long-awaited electrification to the area.
Government representatives also expressed determination to secure the necessary budgetary allocation for the completion of the substation in the 2026 national budget.
They emphasised that ensuring dedicated funding is essential to bringing contractors back to site and restoring momentum to the project.
It was resolved that the parties would reconvene before the close of the first quarter of 2026 to review progress, verify that the required approvals have been granted, and determine a firm timeline for contractors to resume work.
Speaking after the meeting, Comrade Asugwuni expressed optimism that, with renewed federal commitment and the unified efforts of Ndokwa stakeholders, the project is finally on course for completion.
He extended appreciation to all who made the meeting possible and reaffirmed the NNU’s determination to continue pressing for tangible development across Ndokwa land.
