Business
Revoke PHED Contract, FG Urged
Hon. Belema Okpokiri (left), member representing Okrika Constituency, Rivers State House of Assembly explaining a point to HRH Emmanuel Obudibo (JP) Amayanabo of Ogoloma (right) during the commissioning ceremony of an ultra modern market in Okrika recently, while Chief E. A. G. Inimgbatuboni III, Head Chief, Amadi-Ama Community and others watch. Photo: Ibioye Diama
Consumers of electricity
in Port Harcourt and its environs have called on the Federal Government to revoke the contact with the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) as a result of poor power supply to the people of Rivers State.
Some of the consumers who spoke to our correspondent in an interview on Friday said the former contractors, Power holding Company (PHC) are far better than the current ones, and alleged sabotage and incompetence on the job.
They said that all what the PHEDC is after had been exorbitant and frivolous bills without corresponding electricity supply, pointing out that the situation is fast becoming alarming that if no action is taken, the Federal Government would be blamed for the failed project.
According to them, it is unfortunate and disheartening that despite the full and concrete assurance by the Federal Government on constant or improved Power Supply, it is even the worst with the current Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company.
The consumers lamented that for the Federal Government to redeem its image and promises of improved electricity Power Supply in the states, they should revoke the contract and award it to more competent hand that could satisfy the yearnings of the taxpaying masses, as they have a right to enjoy constant electricity supply as one of the social amenities by the Government.
Senibo Allwell hart in his comment said people are no longer enjoying electricity in Port Harcourt unlike before, and that since PHED came on board, it is exorbitant bill only.
Hart however called for improved Services so that people could do business and relax with the Power Supply.
Mrs Florence Johnbull has this to say, “If the Government is sincere enough to the electricity supply to the masses, let them call PHED to order or cancel the contract, because we are not benefiting from the light which they promised to improve upon.
They should do something on the light because the situation is worst with the Port Harcourt electricity Distribution Company (PHEDC). Let them try”.
Monday Eni also decried the poor electricity supply in Port Harcourt, saying that as a welder, he could not do his business except to buy diesel to power his plant when at the end of the month, PHED brought bill that no one could understand.
According to Eni, “if they cannot give the masses light, let them tell the government and the people of the state for a better company to take over”.
A liquor dealer, Mrs Priest-ba-Soberekon said the situation was getting worst every day. She could not freeze her dinks for sale except when she used the generator, which is not suppose to be as a taxpayer as well as electricity bill every month, and called on government to take action before the consumers lose their temper.
In his reaction, the Manager Public Communication of PHED, Jonah Iboma said customers dismay over poor electricity supply is normal, but that honestly, they could not improve on their distribution when the Federal Government power generation is less than 3,000 mega watts in the country.
Iboma however appealed to the consumers to understand and to expect some improvement this year as the government and the company are intensify in plans to satisfy the public with improved electricity supply.
Collins Barasimeye
Nkpemenyie Mcdominic
Reports say that the training is designed to equip youths with practical technical skills for employment in the oil and gas and construction sectors, with emphasis on employability, safety, competence and self reliance.
In attendance at the flag-off ceremony this week, at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Conference Hall, Effurun, were stakeholders, dignitaries, and political representatives, among others.
Dafinone, represented by his Chief of Staff, Adelabu Bodjor, said the initiative reflects a deliberate political investment in human capital development across Delta Central.
He explained that the training focuses on rigging and scaffolding, noting that “both are essential technical competencies required in industrial operations, construction projects, and oil and gas installations”.
Bodjor added, “The programme is intended to reduce dependency among youths by providing job-ready skills capable of supporting long-term economic opportunities and self-sufficiency. The initiative aligns with Senator Dafinone’s broader development agenda, which prioritises practical skill acquisition as a pathway to sustainable empowerment.”
Also addressing the participants, the NCDMB, Felix Omatsola Ogbe, represented by Mr. Teddy Bai, commended Dafinone for sponsoring the programme, describing it as “a timely response to critical manpower gaps in the industry”.
Bai explained that rigging and scaffolding remain safety-sensitive skills required across fabrication yards, offshore platforms, and construction sites, stressing that the programme bridges the gap between certification and practical competence.
He also charged the training consultant, OROH Contractors Limited, to maintain strict standards of professionalism, safety, and discipline, while urging participants to remain committed, focused, and disciplined throughout the exercise.
The Senate Liaison Officer for Sapele Local Government Area, Chief Patrick Akamuvba, , described the programme as a major step in strengthening human capital development in Delta Central.
Akamuvba said scaffolding and rigging skills are in high demand across residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects, noting that the training offers real employment opportunities for beneficiaries
He urged participants to prioritise knowledge and certification over short-term material expectations, stressing that discipline and seriousness would determine their long-term success.
He also cautioned youths against social vices and distractions, advising them to remain focused to maximise the opportunities provided by the programme.