Anambra Government Pledges Transformative Developments In Power, Water, Fire Services 

The Anambra State Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr. Julius Chukwuemeka, has assured residents that the state government, under the leadership of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, is steadfast in its commitment to delivering transformative projects and initiatives across critical sectors under his ministry for the 2025 fiscal year.

The Commissioner provided this assurance at the State House of Assembly in Awka on Wednesday, following his ministry’s budget defense and bilateral discussions with the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, part of the ongoing legislative review of the state’s 2025 Appropriation Bill.

 

Recall that Governor Soludo presented the state’s Appropriation Bill, titled “Changing Gears 2.0,” to the State House of Assembly on Tuesday, November 19, for their consideration and approval. The proposed budget amounts to approximately N607 billion and is being evaluated through necessary legislative actions, including budget defenses by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in front of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, chaired by Ejike Okechukwu.

 

After his ministry’s budget defense, Commissioner Chukwuemeka offered an overview of its performance and services in the year 2024, expressing confidence in the strategic plans and initiatives outlined for 2025. He emphasized that the Ministry of Power and Water Resources is poised to drive significant progress in three core areas: power supply, water provision, and fire safety services across the state.

 

“The Anambra Ministry of Power and Water Resources has three essential mandates: ensuring stable power supply, expanding access to water, and maintaining efficient fire services,” he stated.

 

In the power sector, he highlighted comprehensive plans to extend electricity access to underserved communities and support industries statewide.

 

The Commissioner underscored the ambitious plans for the Anambra State Mixed-Use Industrial City, noting the ministry’s commitment to providing reliable and affordable power to businesses operating within the cluster.

 

This investment, he asserted, is pivotal for attracting investments and driving industrial growth in Anambra.

 

“The provision of affordable and uninterrupted power supply is a key incentive for investors and entrepreneurs,” Chukwuemeka said.

 

“This project is critical for industrial growth and economic transformation in Anambra State.”

 

“Moreover, the Ministry is committed to promoting off-grid power solutions through renewable energy. It has leveraged solar power to illuminate streets and energize key government infrastructures, with plans to expand the initiative to more underserved communities next year in the spirit of “Changing Gears 2.0.”

 

To further enhance energy management, the Commissioner mentioned the establishment of regulatory frameworks, including a bill currently before the House proposing the creation of the Anambra State Electricity Market.

 

“Once this bill is enacted, we will establish agencies to regulate and manage power effectively. The 2023 Electricity Amendment Act empowers states to legislate on power, and Anambra is determined to take full advantage of this opportunity,” he explained.

 

On water resources, Commissioner Chukwuemeka reported significant progress in restoring pipe-borne water to major cities and communities across the state, an issue that had persisted for over two decades.

 

“Thanks to the Anambra State Urban Water Asset Holding Corporation, residents in cities like Awka now enjoy access to water supply for several hours daily based on a scheduled timetable. We aim to extend this service to more areas, including rural communities, utilizing green energy for water generation,” he stated.

 

In regard to fire services, the Commissioner praised the proactive measures taken by the state’s Fire Service.

 

He noted that their quick response to emergencies and continuous awareness campaigns have resulted in a noticeable decline in incidents and casualties related to fire outbreaks in Anambra.

 

“The fire service is not only responsive but also proactive. They have been conducting sensitization programs in markets, churches, and public areas to educate citizens on fire prevention. As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. It is more cost-effective and safer to prevent fire outbreaks than to manage them,” he said.

 

With the Harmattan season approaching, Commissioner Chukwuemeka urged residents to adopt fire safety measures in their homes, vehicles, and communal spaces.

 

“Every household should have a functional fire extinguisher, especially in kitchens where gas usage is common. Fire extinguishers should not just serve as compliance tools but as essential safety equipment for emergencies. Let us prioritize prevention and be prepared to respond swiftly in case of emergencies,” he advised.

 

The Commissioner reiterated the Ministry’s readiness to implement the outlined plans, projects, and initiatives once the budget is approved.

 

He also called on Ndi Anambra to continue supporting the Soludo Administration in its efforts to improve the overall quality of life in the state.

 

“The Ministry is poised to drive a new era of development in Anambra State, truly changing gears as envisioned by Governor Soludo’s administration. We are unwavering in our efforts to deliver these essential services. By next year, we will take ownership of the energy regulation framework, expand water supply, and enhance fire safety mechanisms to ensure a safer, more prosperous Anambra State,” he concluded.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oyenike Oyeniyi