UYO — The Nigerian Navy has restored electricity to Ikot Edeghe community in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, ending nearly a decade of blackout.
The rural electrification project, commissioned on Tuesday, was executed under the Navy’s Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) initiative and funded through the Chief of Naval Staff Special Intervention Quick Impact Project Scheme.
Representing the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, at the ceremony, Rear Admiral Chijioke Onyemaobi said the project reflects the Navy’s commitment to improving living standards in host communities.
“The Nigerian Navy recognises that the security and prosperity of our nation are strengthened when communities are empowered through meaningful development,” Onyemaobi said.
He noted that the intervention aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises infrastructure development and improved quality of life.
The project was facilitated in honour of Rear Admiral Etop Ebe, Director of Maritime Research, Abuja, and an indigene of the community.
Onyemaobi urged residents to safeguard the facility against vandalism to ensure its sustainability.
Representing Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, the Commissioner for Power, Iniobong Robson, commended the Navy for supporting rural development.
“We appreciate the Chief of Naval Staff for these intervention projects aimed at addressing the socio-economic needs of our rural communities,” Robson said, adding that the initiative aligns with the state’s ARISE Agenda.
Earlier, Ebe said the community had suffered nearly 10 years without electricity, affecting economic activities, security and quality of life.
“Ikot Edeghe community has for almost 10 years grappled with the absence of electricity. Nightfall meant darkness, insecurity and a halt to meaningful economic and social life,” he said.
“With the commissioning of this electrification project, that story begins to change.”
He expressed optimism that restored power supply would boost businesses, improve security and enhance learning conditions for residents.
The project underscores ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Navy to combine security operations with community development initiatives across the country.
