Former Nigerian Minister of Science and Technology, Professor Bartholomew Nnaji, recently disclosed the driving force behind the establishment of Nigeria’s sole integrated power initiative, the Aba Geometric Power plant.
This innovative project, capable of generating and distributing up to 188 megawatts of electricity, stands as a testament to the vision inspired by Nigeria’s former Finance Minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
In an exclusive interview with THE WHISTLER, Professor Nnaji recounted the pivotal moment when Okonjo-Iweala’s encouragement ignited his ambition to embark on the groundbreaking endeavor. This initiative, championed by Nnaji, serves as the cornerstone of Geometric Power Limited (GPL), an entity he founded and chairs.
The genesis of the Aba power plant can be traced back to 2004, when the late President of the World Bank, James Wolfensohn, at the behest of Okonjo-Iweala, visited Aba to witness firsthand the city’s vast economic and technological potential.
Reflecting on this transformative visit, Nnaji shared, “Following the 2004 visit, both Dr. Okonjo-Iweala and Dr. Wolfensohn urged me to consider constructing a 50-megawatt power plant in Abia State, targeting manufacturers ranging from large-scale enterprises like the Star Paper Mill to the myriad of skilled artisans at the renowned Ariaria Market.”
Driven by his passion for fostering indigenous innovation and entrepreneurship, Nnaji enthusiastically embraced the proposal. The prospect of situating the plant in Aba, a city synonymous with ingenuity and industrial prowess, further fueled his determination.
Geometric Power’s distinctive approach lies in its status as Nigeria’s singular integrated power project. Unlike conventional electricity providers focused solely on generation or distribution, Geometric Power seamlessly integrates both aspects, empowered by its embedded power plant.
Within the Geometric Power Group, Aba Power Limited Electrical (APLE) assumes the mantle of distribution across nine out of Abia State’s seventeen local government areas, constituting the Aba Ring-fenced Area. Meanwhile, Geometric Power Aba Ltd. (GPAL) spearheads electricity generation within this designated region.
Professor Nnaji, widely recognized as the architect behind Geometric Power, boasts a distinguished academic background, holding a doctorate in Industrial and Systems Engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. Additionally, he serves as a professor at the University of Pennsylvania, specializing in Computer Integrated Manufacturing and Robotics.
The journey towards realizing the Aba Integrated Power Project epitomizes Nnaji’s innovative vision encapsulated in his “Integrated Power Solutions Model.” This paradigm advocates for the establishment of power generation and distribution entities tailored to the requirements of distinct economic clusters, be they residential, commercial, or industrial.
When questioned on his motivation for selecting Aba as the project’s locus, Nnaji elucidated his firsthand experience grappling with the infrastructural constraints hindering industrial progress in the Southeast region. Recalling his endeavors to establish a manufacturing facility in Enugu, he underscored the pivotal role of reliable electricity in fostering economic growth.
The fruition of the Aba Integrated Power Project represents a triumph over adversity, as Nnaji acknowledges the arduous journey marked by relentless perseverance. Despite the challenges encountered along the way, Nnaji remains resolute, emphasizing the profound fulfillment derived from championing initiatives aimed at uplifting his people.
