The House of Representatives Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations has commended the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) for upholding high safety standards at the Calabar Power Plant in Odukpani, Cross River State. The committee’s chairman, Hon. David Zacharias, made the statement after an on-the-spot assessment of the 565MW facility, noting significant improvements since their last visit in 2018.
The inspection aimed to ensure that Nigerians work in safe environments and enjoy long, healthy lives. Zacharias praised the staff for maintaining the plant, stressing that the health and safety of workers in the power sector are critical to both the government and the economy. He noted that the visit was not only to commend but also to highlight areas requiring improvement, such as better lighting, rest areas for shift workers, and adequate seating in offices.
The committee members, including Hon. Harrison Anozie Nwadike, Hon. Suleiman Abubakar Gumi, Hon. Kalejaiye Paul Adeboye, Hon. El-Rasheed Abdullahi, and Hon. Emmanuel Effiong Udo, described the facility as one of the best they had visited in terms of safety standards and compliance. They were conducted around the plant by the Chief Operating Officer of the Calabar Power Plant, Engr. Ayoade Olanrewaju Bex.
The General Manager, Generation Projects at NDPHC, Engr. Valerie Agberagba, stated that safety and standards remain top priorities for the company. She emphasized that the company’s workforce is central to its operations and that NDPHC would continue to improve the work environment for staff, particularly those at its power plants. Agberagba noted that the company has taken note of the areas that need improvement and will address them in the shortest possible time.
The Ag. Head, Health, Safety, and Environment, NDPHC, Austin Ijagem, disclosed that the plant has not recorded any work-related accident that has led to fatality since it began operations. He stated that the safety at the power plant has been top-notch, with significant improvements since 2018. The committee’s visit and commendation reinforce the importance of prioritizing safety and health in the power sector, and NDPHC’s commitment to maintaining high standards is a step in the right direction.
