Energy Consultant, Engr. Ayodele Ikumapayi, fielding questions from newsmen on the power plant project.
From Maurice Okafor, Enugu
A 350-megawatt coal-fired power plant is set to be established in Oji River, Enugu State, to supply electricity to parts of Enugu State, Anambra State, and Ebonyi State within the next two years.
The project consultant, Ayodele Ikumapayi, disclosed this at the South East Electricity Summit held in Enugu on Thursday, April 30, 2026.
Ikumapayi noted that the state possesses abundant high-quality coal reserves capable of powering the plant for between 40 and 50 years. He added that by-products such as coal ash would be captured and utilized in the production of cement and ceramic tiles.
“Unlike many thermal plants in Nigeria that depend on gas piped from distant regions, the Oji River project will utilize the South East’s own ‘black gold’. There are high-quality sub-bituminous coal deposits and other grades with low sulphur content found in various parts of Enugu State,” he said.
He further described thermal power plants as a viable solution for industrial development due to their long operational lifespan.
Speaking on progress, Ikumapayi said the project has received support from the Enugu State Government and that licensing processes have commenced with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, alongside environmental impact assessments.
“We have secured the backing of the Enugu State Government regarding location and administrative requirements. Licensing processes are underway, along with Environmental Impact Assessments,” he added.
He also argued that coal-powered plants remain a modern and efficient energy option, comparing Nigeria’s plans with developments abroad.
“Last year, China and India commissioned 85,000 megawatts and 47,000 megawatts of coal-fired power respectively to sustain their industrial bases,” he stated.
In his keynote address, former Minister of Power, Chinedu Nebo, emphasized that coal remains a cost-effective energy source still widely used in developed countries. He stressed the need for expanded transmission infrastructure across the South East to deliver electricity directly to industrial clusters, institutions, and healthcare facilities.
The summit, themed “Genuine Search for 24/7 Electricity Supply to the South East Zone,” attracted stakeholders and industrialists from across the region.
In a goodwill message, Lawrence Agubuzu commended the initiative, expressing optimism that the project would boost energy supply in the South East.
Also speaking, Chekwas Okorie urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts in addressing infrastructural deficits in the region. While acknowledging the establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he lamented that the commission is yet to receive funding more than a year after its creation.
The summit was organised by the Njiko Igbo Forum, a socio-economic pressure group focused on promoting development in the South East.
