The Anambra government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Enugu State Electricity Company (EEDC) to guarantee steady power supply in the state.

The agreement was signed by Chukwuma Soludo, governor of Anambra, and Julius Emeka, commissioner for public utilities, while Emeka Offor, chief executive officer of EEDC, signed on behalf of his organisation.

Christian Aburime, chief press secretary to the governor, said the signing ceremony took place at the Anambra government house on Friday.

“Today, I signed a memorandum of understanding with Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) to ensure that power supply in the state is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” Soludo said at the event.

“The signing of the MoU took place today at the Anambra State Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Awka. Today is a historic day for the people and the state.

“I acknowledge that this signing will completely translate into positive changes, which is critical for the journey towards a liveable and prosperous homeland that cannot be achieved without a continuous supply of power.

“Long before I was sworn in as Governor of Anambra, I recognized the importance of power and deeply considered how it could be achieved in the shortest period for at least three to four major cities in the state What we did today was to consummate that marriage.

“The courtship began over a year ago, and I am overjoyed that the marriage has finally been consummated today. We must all work together to ensure that we have a stable and continuous power supply in Anambra State.

“Anambra is a state of which more than 60 percent of its non-land assets are domiciled outside of the state. If at least 25 percent of the proceeds are returned to Anambra, the state can become what we envision it to be.

“My message to the rest of Anambra’s billionaires and millionaires is that wealth and net worth alone are insufficient. The question is, how much of your wealth and assets are domiciled in the state for Anambra to be the choice of destination to live, work, invest, relax and enjoy.”

On his part, Offor said he is happy to contribute his quota towards 24/7 power supply in Anambra.

He added that more support is still needed, particularly from the legislative arm, on laws that would empower EEDC to achieve its goals.