Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has appealed to residents of the state to exercise patience over the delay in the completion and rollout of the state’s Independent Power Project (IPP), assuring that the project remains a top priority of his administration.

The governor made the appeal amid growing public concern over the slow pace of the power project, which is expected to deliver stable and near 24-hour electricity supply to Yenagoa and other parts of the state. Diri explained that the delay was caused by technical and logistical challenges rather than lack of commitment by the government. According to him, significant progress has already been recorded on the project, with most of the gas turbines procured and installed at Elebele in Ogbia Local Government Area. He disclosed that six out of the eight planned modern gas turbines have arrived, while the remaining equipment is expected to be delivered to enable final installation and commissioning. Governor Diri noted that the IPP is a complex infrastructure project that requires careful integration with the existing electricity distribution network, regulatory approvals, and final technical calibrations to ensure safety and sustainability. He stressed that rushing the process could compromise efficiency and long-term performance. We understand the expectations of our people, and we share in that urgency,” the governor said. “However, this is a critical project that must be done properly. I appeal to Bayelsans to remain patient as we complete the final stages. The governor reiterated that once completed, the IPP would be a game-changer for the state, boosting industrial activities, supporting small and medium-scale businesses, improving healthcare and education services, and reducing the cost of doing business. He also clarified that electricity from the IPP would not be free, explaining that consumers would pay for power consumed through a metered system to ensure sustainability, maintenance, and continuous supply. Diri reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering reliable electricity to the people of Bayelsa, stating that the government would continue to provide regular updates on the project’s progress until it becomes fully operational.