The Bende community in Abia State has been reconnected to the National Grid for the first time in 23 years, ending a prolonged period of total blackout that began in 2003.
The restoration of electricity follows a determined intervention by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency.
Kalu spearheaded the massive project, which involved the installation of new electric poles, high-tension wires, replacement of obsolete transformers, and negotiations with electricity distribution companies to resolve accumulated legacy charges.
On Monday, January 19, 2026, the switch-on was officially activated, bringing stable power supply to Bende, Ozuitem, and Uzuakoli communities.
The grid restoration complements a recently commissioned 1,000 KVA solar power grid in the area, ensuring residents have both national grid supply and solar backup—a dual solution designed to sustain development and improve quality of life.
The Deputy Speaker’s efforts have been hailed as a landmark achievement, given that successive governments and representatives were unable to resolve the prolonged power outage.
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Disclaimer:
This report is based on project updates and official statements. Power stability may vary as distribution networks undergo further stabilization.
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