The House of Representatives Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations has commended the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) for maintaining exceptional safety practices at its 565MW Calabar Power Plant in Odukpani, Cross River State.
The commendation followed an on-site inspection of the facility, which the committee described as one of the best they’ve visited in terms of health and safety compliance. The lawmakers noted notable improvements since their last visit to the plant in 2018.
Leading the delegation, Committee Chairman David Zacharias, said the purpose of the visit was not only to inspect, but also to ensure Nigerian workers operate in environments that protect their health, safety, and wellbeing.
“Our impression is very positive,” Zacharias said during a media briefing at the plant. “We’re happy with the progress made since our last visit, and we appreciate the company’s commitment to creating a safe working environment.”
While acknowledging the plant’s progress, the committee also pointed out areas needing attention, particularly concerning the workplace experience for employees.
“We observed some issues during our tour such as inadequate lighting, insufficient rest areas for shift workers, and a need for improved seating in some offices,” Zacharias noted. “These are things that impact worker wellbeing, and we will be reporting them for swift intervention.”
He added that the committee is hopeful these recommendations will be implemented before their next visit.
The delegation included other lawmakers: Hon. Harrison Anozie Nwadike, Hon. Suleiman Abubakar Gumi, Hon. Kalejaiye Paul Adeboye, Hon. El-Rasheed Abdullahi, and Hon. Emmanuel Effiong Udo.
Welcoming the committee, General Manager of Generation Projects at NDPHC Valerie Agberagba, said safety and regulatory compliance are top priorities for the company.
“This visit was important because it allowed us to measure our progress,” she said. “When you compare the 2018 inspection report with today’s findings, the improvement is clear. We’re not taking safety and environmental standards lightly, we’re fully committed to our workforce and operational excellence.”
Agberagba assured that management had taken note of the committee’s recommendations and would address them promptly.
“Staff welfare is critical to us. If our people don’t work in good conditions, we can’t expect the best performance. Those issues raised will be tackled without delay,” she added.
Also speaking during the inspection, Austin Ijagem, Acting Head of Health, Safety, and Environment at NDPHC, said the Calabar Power Plant has never recorded a fatal work-related accident since it began operations, a record the company takes pride in.
“Back in 2018, there were several safety concerns. But today, most of those issues have been resolved. The consultants themselves acknowledged the improvements. We’re now approaching zero outstanding safety concerns,” Ijagem said.
The plant’s Chief Operating Officer, Ayoade Olanrewaju Bex, who conducted the lawmakers around the facility, highlighted the operational discipline and commitment of the staff in maintaining a high-performance, low-risk environment.
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