By Barry Needom
The Minister for Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal and the Project Coordinator of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, were in Nanjing, China, where the successful completion of Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) of the Ogoni Power Project were finalized by NR Electric Company Limited, from 30 October to 1 November, 2026.
During the exercise, 11 representative protection and control panels underwent inspections, simulations, and functional tests to verify their performance and reliability. These panels covered all the protection and control schemes required for the project. All tests were successfully completed, with satisfactory results recorded, and the Project Coordinator signed off the FAT Report, authorising delivery of the equipment to the Bodo and Wiiyakara substations this December.
The equipment forms part of the intelligent systems that will serve as the operational backbone of the new substations. These systems are designed to continuously monitor the electricity network, detect faults or abnormal operating conditions, and initiate protective actions to prevent equipment damage and minimise power interruptions. They will also enable efficient substation monitoring and control, contributing to a safer and more reliable electricity supply.
Beyond the immediate technical achievement, this development represents further progress towards HYPREP’s broader commitment to environmental remediation and livelihood restoration, sustainable development and socio-economic revitalisation of Ogoniland.
The Ogoni Power Project, a major infrastructure initiative being implemented by HYPREP, involves constructing approximately 62 kilometres of 132kV transmission lines and two modern 132/33kV transmission substations at Wiiyakara and Bodo, each equipped with two 60MVA power transformers. The project is designed to strengthen electricity infrastructure and support improved power supply across Ogoniland.
Once completed and energised, the power infrastructure is expected to support a more dependable electricity supply, create opportunities for businesses and industries, strengthen essential services, and improve living conditions for the Ogoni people and adjoining communities.
Other members of the inspection team include: Representatives of the Ogoni Power Project (OPP) Consultants, Oska-Jo & Partners Limited, the EPC Contractor, Energovod Engineering Limited and the equipment manufacturer, NR Electric.
