Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has congratulated the Chairman and Founder of Geometric Power Limited, Professor Barth Nnaji, on his 70th birthday, describing him as a visionary whose power project is helping to transform Abia’s economy.
Governor Otti spoke on Friday, July 17, 2026, at the International Conference Centre in Enugu during the celebration of Professor Nnaji’s 70th birthday.
The Governor praised Professor Nnaji for his intelligence, resilience, and determination in completing the Aba Integrated Power Project despite many years of challenges. He said the project has improved electricity supply, encouraged industrial growth, and supported the state’s economic transformation.
Governor Otti said Geometric Power has become a key driver of Abia’s economic growth. According to him, the availability of stable electricity gave the state government the confidence to introduce its first electric buses, adding that another batch of the buses will arrive soon.
He also described Professor Nnaji as a man who was ahead of his time, noting that he studied Artificial Intelligence and Robotics many years before the technology became popular around the world.
The Governor thanked several national leaders who played important roles in the success of the Geometric Power Project. He commended the Emir of Kano and former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Muhammadu Sanusi II, for helping to secure funding for the project. He also praised former President Olusegun Obasanjo for approving the Aba Ring-fenced Power Project in 2004 and Vice President Kashim Shettima for supporting the gas supply that led to the commissioning of the Geometric Power Plant in February 2024.
Governor Otti urged Nigerians to learn from Professor Nnaji’s resilience, hard work, and commitment. He said Professor Nnaji stayed focused on the project for more than 20 years before it became a reality.
In his keynote address, the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, described stable electricity as the foundation of economic growth. He said the development taking place in Abia through Geometric Power clearly shows the importance of reliable power supply.
In his response, Professor Nnaji thanked Governor Otti, Muhammadu Sanusi II, his family, friends, and other supporters for standing by him throughout the journey of the Geometric Power Project. He also appreciated everyone who attended his birthday celebration.
A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of Professor Nnaji’s biography titled The Man Who Dared: The Story of Bart Nnaji.
The event was attended by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, Mrs. Uche Azikiwe, Abia State Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, and many other distinguished guests.
