By Salifu Faridat
The Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) is making remarkable progress towards providing uninterrupted power supply in Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Rivers states.
Dr. Benson Uwheru, the Managing Director of PHED, revealed this during a recent meeting with stakeholders in Akwa Ibom and Rivers states.
In a bid to enhance service delivery to its customers in the franchise states, PHED has embraced modern innovations and technology, aligned with the company’s midterm and long-term strategic vision.
Uwheru stressed the importance of strengthening partnerships with stakeholders to maintain sustainable relationships while prioritizing customer demands.
A statement by Mr. Olubukola Ilevbare, the Head of Corporate Communications, in Port Harcourt on Saturday, outlined the company’s approach.
PHED has entered into an agreement with Ibom Power to collaboratively replace worn-out power infrastructures, manage vegetation at facilities, safeguard equipment from vandals, and promptly address transit faults.
Uwheru expressed confidence that the recent engagements with stakeholders in Eket and Uyo, Akwa Ibom, would significantly enhance power supply in the state.
Additionally, he had a productive meeting with Prof. Henry Ogiri, the Commissioner of Power in Rivers, to discuss crucial matters pertaining to both institutions.
To ensure reliable power supply, especially in Rivers state, which consumes the highest electricity in their franchise area, PHED is keen on establishing a State Power Sector Working Committee in collaboration with the Rivers State government.
The committee will focus on developing business models addressing power supply, preventive maintenance, electricity architecture, supply priority areas, and service concerns, leveraging state-owned power assets. Monthly meetings will be held to review power supply challenges and find sustainable solutions.
Uwheru called on the state government to support PHED in tackling challenges such as entitlement mentality, non-payment of electricity bills, vandalism of facilities, and assaults on staff during duty.
In response, Prof. Henry Ogiri assured the state government’s willingness to partner with PHED to achieve a steady electricity supply across the 23 local government areas of the state.
With these proactive initiatives, PHED is taking significant steps towards realizing its goal of providing 24-hour power supply in the four states under its purview.
The company’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure and working collaboratively with stakeholders demonstrates its determination to ensure uninterrupted and reliable power supply for its customers.
