Governor Alex Otti has revealed that his administration has entered into negotiations with the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company to secure 80 megawatts of power for Umuahia, the Abia State capital.

The Abia State Governor promised that the 80 megawatts of power for Umuahia will be achieved before the end of the year or early next year.

Otti spoke during an interdenominational thanksgiving service organised to celebrate his one year in office at the International Conference Center, Umuahia, on Sunday.

The Governor who affirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering economic growth and improving the overall quality of life for the people as his government will continue to negotiate with the EEDC to deliver the power to Umuahia.

He said: “We are trying to solve the problem of power in Umuahia as we continue our negotiations with EEDC.

“When we achieve maximum output, we will have not less than 80 megawatts of power wheeled to Umuahia that will serve the city.

“It is doable and by the end of the year, or early in the new year, we would have achieved it.”

The governor thanked God for the opportunity given to him to serve Abia people and contribute to the development of the state.

He said that Abia Government under his watch would continue to do the right thing “irrespective of whose ox is gored”.

He also gave assurance that he would not be distracted by the negative comments from the opposition.

Otti also acknowledged the pivotal role of religious leaders in advocating for change in the state as well as their unity, prayers and support.

He further promised that the principle of equity and fairness would be upheld in delivering democracy dividend to the people of Abia.

Earlier in a sermon, a clergyman, Rev. Uma Onwunta, said that God expects gratitude from His people and the governor’s action was a reflection of his commitment in thanking God.

Onwunta urged Christians to dedicate themselves to God in thanksgiving.

He commended the governor for the significant progress made in the state within one year of his leadership.