Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State in Nigeria says that an Independent Power Plant that will provide 24-hour uninterrupted electricity to most parts of Abeokuta, the state capital, will be ready for inauguration in the next eight weeks.
Abiodun stated this on Monday, February 17, 2025, after inspecting the 30 megawatts power plant located in Onijanganjangan, near Ewekoro in Ewekoro Local Government Area.
The governor explained that the project was in collaboration with private sector partnership,and the first phase of the Ogun State Light Up Project.
According to him, the project is in line with his promise to provide uninterrupted power supply to major cities and towns across the state.
Abiodun stated that Abeokuta metropolis required more than 30 megawatts of power, adding that this was the first phase of the planned 100 megawatts power generation capacity.
“I have gone around and have taken note of the progress of work so far.
“I have seen the control room, I have seen the turbines and I have seen what will be responsible for ensuring that the gas is compressed.
“We have seen the gas pipelines that will be completed in three to six weeks. The gas compressor is there, and there is a diesel tank as well.
“I can assure you that once this has been achieved, though we may not be able to supply power to the whole of Abeokuta, substantial parts of the city will now enjoy 24 hours of uninterrupted power supply,” he said.
Abiodun observed that the plant, apart from using compressed gas as its main fuel, would also make use of diesel as a backup in case of disruption in the supply of gas.
The power plant, the governor emphasised, would provide constant electricity to government institutions, health facilities, government quarters, police stations, local government offices, and higher institutions.
“It will eventually cascade to private individuals and industries when the capacity is increased.
“The state decided to go into power generation, distribution, and transmission as a result of its removal from the exclusive list by the Federal Government.
“I want to assure that similar plants will be built in Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode and Ota.
“The Ogun House of Assembly has passed into law the setting up of the Ogun State Electricity Regulatory Commission to oversee all the activities of the power sector in Ogun State,” he said.
Earlier, the Project Manager, Mr. Selvin Leo, said the project was 90 per cent completed.
Leo assured that with the availability of needed materials, equipment, and commitment from the workers, the job would be completed in record time.
By Abiodun Lawal