Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has attributed the state’s growing economic transformation to the successful implementation of the Geometric Power Project, describing it as a game-changing investment that has strengthened industrial development, improved electricity supply, and accelerated Abia’s transition to clean energy transportation.
Governor Otti made the remarks on Friday during the 70th birthday celebration of renowned engineer, former Minister of Power, and Founder/Chairman of Geometric Power Limited, Professor Barth Nnaji, held at the International Conference Centre in Enugu.
The governor praised Professor Nnaji for his exceptional vision, determination, and resilience in delivering the Aba Integrated Power Project despite years of financial and regulatory obstacles.
According to Otti, Professor Nnaji demonstrated remarkable foresight by pursuing studies in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics long before the technologies gained worldwide recognition.
“At a time when Artificial Intelligence was still in its infancy, Professor Nnaji already saw the future,” the governor said.
He also highlighted Nnaji’s impressive academic achievements, noting that he completed a four-year programme at St. John’s University, New York, in just two years and nine months before obtaining his master’s degree in 1982 and earning a doctorate the following year.
Governor Otti used the occasion to acknowledge individuals whose contributions helped bring the Aba Integrated Power Project to fruition.
He commended the 16th Emir of Kano and former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Muhammadu Sanusi II, for facilitating critical financial support during his time in the banking sector. Otti recalled that Sanusi’s intervention through the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) enabled Geometric Power to restructure its financing and continue the project when funding challenges threatened its completion.
The governor also praised former President Olusegun Obasanjo for approving the Aba Ring-Fenced Power Project in 2004, describing the decision as the foundation upon which the landmark electricity project was built.
He further acknowledged Vice President Kashim Shettima for supporting efforts that secured gas supply to the Geometric Power Plant, leading to its successful commissioning in February 2024.
Speaking on the impact of the project, Governor Otti said reliable electricity has become a major catalyst for Abia’s economic growth.
He explained that the availability of stable power gave his administration the confidence to introduce electric buses into the state’s transportation system, adding that another batch of the buses is expected to arrive soon.
Governor Otti urged Nigerians to emulate Professor Nnaji’s perseverance, innovation, and commitment, describing him as an example of what determination and long-term vision can achieve.
Delivering the keynote lecture titled “Energy Security and Innovative Service,” Muhammadu Sanusi II stressed that energy security remains the foundation of economic development.
He pointed to Abia State as a practical example of how stable electricity can transform an economy.
“If anyone wants to understand the impact of reliable power on economic growth, they only need to look at Geometric Power and the transformation taking place in Abia,” Sanusi said.
He described Professor Nnaji as a visionary leader whose unwavering commitment turned a seemingly impossible dream into reality.
In his response, Professor Barth Nnaji expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the Geometric Power Project.
He paid special tribute to Governor Alex Otti and Muhammadu Sanusi II for their consistent support over the years, recalling their significant roles in securing financing for the project and facilitating the conversion of its loans from dollars to naira.
Professor Nnaji noted that Otti’s emergence as Governor of Abia coincided with the completion of the power project, describing it as a remarkable development for the state’s future.
A major highlight of the celebration was the unveiling of Professor Nnaji’s biography titled The Man Who Dared: The Story of Bart Nnaji.
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The event attracted several prominent personalities, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, Mrs. Uche Azikiwe, Abia State Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, as well as business leaders, academics, policymakers, and other distinguished guests from across Nigeria.
