Governor Alex Otti of Abia State says his administration is committed to achieving 24-hour electricity supply across the state, stressing that reliable power is central to industrial growth and reduced production costs.

He made the remarks on Monday at the Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos during the opening ceremony of Invest Lagos 3.0, a platform designed to connect investors with opportunities across key sectors of the Lagos economy. The event was broadcast live on Arise News TV.

Otti explained that his government prioritised electricity reform from the beginning of his administration, alongside efforts to transform markets and improve the business environment.

According to him, progress has already been recorded in parts of the state, especially in Aba, following the establishment of Geometric Power by a private investor.

“Today, Aba has an island that includes eight more local governments, literally out of the national grid. And Aba has been reinforced as an island. And they have 24-hour power as we speak,” he said.

The governor added that his administration has also signed an agreement aimed at taking Umuahia, the state capital, out of the control of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC). He said the state has established its own electricity regulatory agency to strengthen control over power distribution.

Otti noted that the Geometric Power plant, with a maximum capacity of about 188 megawatts, could also support other parts of the state once fully optimised.

“We can just will it to Umuahia and other parts of the state. And by God’s grace, in a few years, we should also guarantee 24-hour power supply in Umuahia and other local governments,” he said.

He emphasised that electricity remains critical because a large share of manufacturing and industrial costs—about 60 to 70 per cent—is driven by energy.

Beyond power, the governor highlighted progress in infrastructure, healthcare, and transportation since assuming office in 2023.

He said his administration has constructed over 400 roads, with more than 80 additional projects currently ongoing, aimed at improving connectivity and supporting economic activity.

Otti also said the government has introduced 20 electric buses, with another 20 expected to arrive from China soon, as part of efforts to modernise public transport.

In healthcare, he said Abia has invested about 15 per cent of its budget into the sector, renovated over 270 primary health centres, and employed around 800 healthcare professionals, including some from outside Nigeria.

He added that about 70 hospitals are currently being rebuilt, while the state is planning a major medical investment project known as the Abia Medical City, which will require an estimated $1.3 billion.

Otti said the project is aimed at reducing medical tourism by providing world-class healthcare within the state.

He expressed optimism that with continued investment, Abia could position itself as a regional hub for healthcare services, reducing the need for Nigerians to travel abroad for treatment.