The Managing Director of Ibom Power Company Ltd, Mr. Meyen Etukudo, has said 43 per cent of the 107 permanent workers are from the host local government, Ikot Abasi.
Speaking during a visit to the Chairman of Ikot Abasi council, Mr. David David Eshiet, Etukudo said: “This number excludes contract workers and others.”
Addressing the chairman and his team, comprising the Vice Chairman, Etop Enang and Secretary Etenam Umana, he said last year Ibom Power received praise in Nigeria, Africa and the international community.
He said: “It received accolades from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), African Quality Awards and General Electric (GE) Frame 9E Conference in Dubai.”
Etukudo said the firm had prospects, “as investors have indicated interest in the 500megawatts Phase 2 of Ibom Power Plant Company and progress is being made towards the development of the project.”
He said the company’s biggest challenge was non-payment of full monthly invoices by Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Company PLC. (NBET).
The managing director reiterated the commitment of the firm to ensure regular electricity supply to Ikot Abasi.
Eshiet hailed the management for the visit.
He praised the firm’s contribution to the community, expressing the readiness of his office to partner Ibom Power for the development of Ikot Abasi.