The Aba Integrated Power Project (Aba IPP), financed by Afreximbank, was officially commissioned in Abia State by the Vice President of Nigeria, H.E Kashim Shettima. This landmark project, with a capacity of 141 MW, features three GE LM6000 Gas turbines and is poised to revolutionize power distribution across nine local government areas within the Aba region.
Recognizing the pivotal role of energy distribution in national development, Afreximbank has committed over US$4.6 billion to Africa’s power sector, with approximately USD 900 million dedicated to projects in Nigeria. The Bank’s ongoing support includes a US$50 million term loan facility to Geometric Power Limited for infrastructure completion and operational commencement of the Aba IPP.
Prof. Benedict Oramah, President of Afreximbank, hailed the Aba IPP as a testament to collaborative efforts between public and private sectors, asserting its potential to stimulate trade and economic growth regionally. Unique in Nigeria, the Aba IPP’s integrated model ensures direct power supply to local communities while contributing surplus energy to the national grid, thereby addressing grid-related challenges.
Equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, including three GE LM6000 Gas turbines and a 27km gas pipeline, the Aba IPP guarantees reliable fuel supply and seamless power distribution. Positioned strategically in South-Eastern Nigeria’s industrial hub, the project is set to bolster industrialization efforts, particularly in the renowned commercial hub of Aba, known for its vibrant small-scale industries.
Geometric Power estimates over 370,000 direct and indirect jobs will be created during the project’s operational phase, with additional benefits including improved infrastructure, enhanced services, increased agricultural productivity, and support for rural electrification and tourism.
The Aba IPP heralds a new era of sustainable energy and economic prosperity in Nigeria’s southeast, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s quest for energy sufficiency and industrial advancement.