President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday commissioned the 180-megawatt Afam II Power Plant in Oyigbo, Rivers State, in a move hailed as a major boost to Nigeria’s national grid and energy access efforts.

The project, developed by Sahara Power Group in partnership with Crescendough Nigeria Limited, was delivered in just 16 months using primarily Nigerian expertise. Tinubu, who flagged off the plant virtually from Abuja, described it as a testament to the power of private-sector collaboration and Nigeria’s resilience in overcoming infrastructural challenges.

“This project represents a key achievement born of the enterprising Nigerian spirit,” Tinubu said. “It will power homes, industries, and businesses, drive economic growth, and foster renewed hope.”

He praised Sahara Power, First Independent Power Limited, and Crescendough Nigeria Limited for their commitment and investment, while also commending the Rivers State Government for enabling the project.

The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to stable power supply, stating, “We will continue to implement policies that protect investments and promote the ease of doing business.”

Group Managing Director of Sahara Power Group, Dr. Kola Adesina, said the Afam II plant marks more than just an energy boost—it signals progress in job creation, industrial development, and improved livelihoods.

“For us, it’s about impact and transformation,” Adesina said. “Electricity is the backbone of modern economies, and Sahara is proud to play a leading role in powering over 50 million Nigerians through Egbin Power and First Independent Power Limited.”

He also announced plans for further expansion at Egbin Power, upgrades at Ikeja Electric, and increased investment in renewable energy solutions.

Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), hailed the project as evidence of the Tinubu administration’s focus on indigenous solutions. “This milestone shows the strength of local enterprise and our state’s potential for large-scale investments,” he said.

Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, called the power plant a landmark achievement. “Sahara’s investment stands as a beacon of what public-private collaboration can achieve in our quest for energy security,” he noted.

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, also pledged continued collaboration to address gas supply issues affecting power generation.

With the addition of 180MW to the grid, the Afam II Power Plant is expected to play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s energy landscape—supporting the country’s ambition for reliable and sustainable power supply.