By Ekanem Faith
The Cross River State Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Prince Eka Williams, has described electricity as the “oxygen of every business,” underscoring its vital role in economic survival and growth.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (NIEEE) at his office in Calabar, Williams noted that Cross River is richly endowed with energy resources including hydro, solar, biomass, and wind. However, he identified transmission — not generation — as the major challenge, citing long distances and voltage drops as key issues.
The Commissioner disclosed that the newly signed State Electricity Law would be implemented through a gradual, deliberate process to ensure sustainability. He stressed that the proposed regulatory commission must be composed of seasoned professionals and remain free from political interference.
Williams further emphasized that engineering plays a crucial role in management and policy formulation. He urged engineers within the Ministry to register with their professional bodies, expressing concern over the low level of professional registration and encouraging greater individual commitment to career development.
Earlier, a Fellow of the Institute, Engr. Martin Abreka, explained that the visit aimed to better understand the state’s unique electricity challenges, advocate practical solutions, and explore areas where the NIEEE could provide technical support. He added that the visit was also to honour the Commissioner for his exceptional commitment to the engineering profession and his contributions to the power sector, while fostering stronger collaboration between the Institute and the Ministry.
The Vice President for Power and Clean Energy of the Institute, Engr. Olalekan Olabode, noted that the Federal Government’s ongoing power sector reforms have decentralized electricity regulation, granting states greater control over their power sectors. He observed that Cross River State is yet to fully leverage this opportunity by establishing its own regulatory commission, unlike some other states.
Olabode also underscored the critical importance of training and knowledge transfer from experienced engineers to the current and future workforce, warning that many seasoned professionals are aging or have passed on, making the transfer of their expertise increasingly urgent.
The State Chairman of NIEEE, Cross River State Chapter, Engr. Kazeem Ojikutu, announced that the International Conference for Electrical Engineers would be held in Port Harcourt in October.
He invited engineers across the state to register, participate, and take advantage of the training opportunities, and also proposed that Cross River State host a future edition of the conference.
