By Eunice Nnachi, Yenagoa
The Bayelsa State Government has appealed for patience from residents over the delay in electricity supply following the commissioning of its gas turbine project, while reaffirming its commitment to transparency and prudent financial management.
Hon. Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyah, made the appeal during a monthly transperancy briefing, in Yenagoa, noting that although the project has been commissioned, technical work is still ongoing to ensure safe and sustainable power delivery.
“Since the commissioning, we are aware that journalists and members of the public have continued to raise concerns, particularly regarding the delay in power supply. The fact remains that work is still ongoing,” she said.
She explained that the government is taking necessary precautions to avoid costly technical faults, stressing that the project must be completed to the highest standards before being put into full operation.
“A significant amount of resources has been invested in this project, and it is important that everything is properly completed to avoid faults that could lead to even greater costs for the state,” she added.
Koku-Obiyah emphasized that the benefits of the power project would be widespread, urging residents to remain patient.
“The light will come soon, and when it does, we will all enjoy its benefits. Every household, every business, and every community stands to gain,” she assured.
The commissioner also reflected on the state’s long-standing electricity challenges, noting that Bayelsa had gone over three decades without an independent power supply.
“What we are witnessing now is a major step toward changing that reality. After such a long wait, we ask for just a little more patience,” she said.
She further disclosed that the government remains committed to completing all ongoing projects, including key infrastructure such as hospitals, roads, and the People’s Standard Stadium, as well as the iconic nine-storey experience building.
Reiterating the administration’s resolve, she said: “No project will be left abandoned by God’s grace. This is the promise of prosperity to Bayelsans.”
On financial matters, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Treasury, speaking at the monthly transparency briefing, presented a detailed account of the state’s income and expenditure for the first quarter of 2026.
According to him, the state recorded deficits in January, February, and March due to heavy spending on capital and recurrent projects. January posted a deficit of ₦27.33 billion, February ₦2.2 billion, and March ₦1.83 billion.
Despite this, he noted that strong opening balances helped sustain the state’s financial position.
“Although we recorded deficits across the three months, the state maintained a strong positive balance throughout the quarter, supported by prior reserves,” he said.
He added that the government has nearly completed the repayment of restructured commercial bank loans inherited from previous administrations, describing it as a major step toward fiscal stability.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, urging citizens and the media to continue supporting its development agenda.
