Governor Alex Otti on Tuesday, distributed 11 transformers of different capacities to various communities to boost power supply in Abia.

Speaking during the handover ceremony in Umuahia, Mr Otti emphasised the crucial role of reliable electricity in fostering industrialisation and economic growth.

The governor said sustaining any industrial progress in Abia would be difficult without a stable power supply.

“We are a blessed state and very industrious people and we cannot promote industrialisation without reliable electricity. So this is part of that gesture that would help us achieve that goal,” he said.

Mr Otti revealed that the government procured 53 transformers in December, specifically to boost the electricity supply in various communities in Abia.

He said the transformers were the first batch they procured and would be distributed to communities in Abia.

“So, today we will be handing over to 11 communities and the entire week, we will distribute the remaining transformers to the benefitting communities.

“This is done because they were assessed on a first-come-first-served basis. We reviewed the applications and the ones we found worthy are the ones that are receiving,” Mr Otti said.

According to the governor, the initiative is part of his social contract with the people of Abia, aimed at promoting and providing a reliable electricity supply to the communities.

He urged the benefitting communities to take ownership of the transformers and guard them against vandalism.

“I would like to urge the communities, especially the community heads, that today you will be signing an attestation before we will hand over this transformer to you.

“This is to reinforce that you will take responsibility for these transformers and that you will hold it as a treasure and protect it against any form of threat or vandalism.

“This is taxpayers money that is put to work, so you should endeavour to ensure that you will handle it with care, protect it and provide enough security.

“If there is any support you need, my office is always ready and open to listen to you and support you,” he said.

Mr Otti said the distribution exercise would continue until the rest of the transformers are given to the communities shortlisted to benefit from the exercise.

(NAN)