Waltersmith sponsors, partners Imo State on electrification project

Nigeria’s leading integrated energy company, Waltersmith Petroman Oil Limited in conjunction with the Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC), has kicked off the first ever electrification project for all six communities.

The communities comprising Umuapu, Obite, Ochia, Awarra, Assa, Obile have lived their lives without electricity, as they have never been connected to the national grid.

According to the stakeholders, “Darkness has become a normal part of the community’s existence.”The electrification project which is valued at N460million is being funded jointly by Waltersmith and ISOPADEC.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony on the 16th of December 2019, the Governor of Imo-State, Emeka Ihedioha expressed his appreciation to Waltersmith for partnering with the Government and thanked them for their immense contributions in the state till date.

The Governor further assured the communities of Government’s willingness to bring development to the rural areas.Governor Emeka Ihedioha said the electrification project was a fulfilment of his promise to utilize the proceeds of 13% derivation funds essentially for the development of Ohaji/Egbema and Oguta Local Government Areas and particularly the oil Producing communities.

In a statement, Waltersmith said that it was proud to be an equity partner in the project as it is a symbol of its robust Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives and its deep-rooted commitment to bring tangible benefits close to the communities and ensure sustainable growth and development in its areas of operations.

At the kick-off ceremony, visibly elated members of the communities were full of praise for Waltersmith, stating that the provision of electricity was a dream come true and would open up job opportunities and build local capacity.