Ayade optimistic as alternative energy firm sets up shop in Cross River

Emmanuel Alfred

Cross River State Governor, His Excellency, Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade believes that Alternative Petroleum and Power Limited (APPL), an indigenous energy firm, would solve the energy needs of the over 30 industries built by his administration.

Ayade made this known on Wednesday, November 9, 2022, at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Calabar during a courtesy call on him by the management team of the firm, commended APPL for choosing the State for its operation.

APPL which is in partnership with Bergen Engines, Norway and Diesel Electric Services Pty Ltd, South Africa, was allocated land at Odukpani, an outskirt of Calabar, two years ago to build an energy outfit.

According to Sen Ayade, “We have over 30 industries that our administration has built but our greatest challenge is power so that you come to provide an alternative source of power using a very classic technology which is gas to liquid technology is a welcome development.
“I want to thank you for the choice of Cross River state and for the massive employment opportunity APPL will bring onboard occasioned by the project”

The Governor assured the APPL management that it would not regret siting its operation in the State because “the nature, character of a people where a business is sited determines the success of the business and industrial harmony.

“Your choice of Cross River state for your business will guarantee you industrial peace because Cross Riverians are peaceful people. We will support you back to back”

Earlier in his remarks, APPL’s Executive Director, Innovation, Engr. Idara Ekpo commended Ayade’s industrialisation strides, saying the he has performed creditably well.

Engr. Ekpo stated that the APPL Management came to intimate him of how far the company has gone in setting up its operations since the State Government allocated it 30 hectares of land two years ago.

According to him, the company’s project will be ready for commissioning by the Governor in February or March of 2023.