Makinde inaugurates first phase of 11-megawatt Ibadan Hybrid Power
By Adewale Owoade
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has inaugurated the first phase of the 11-megawatt Ibadan Hybrid Power (IBHP), at the Power House, Secretariat, Ibadan.
The first phase of the project, a 5MW integrated power plant, consisting of 1MW solar power and 4MW natural gas, will provide electricity to the Secretariat and its environs.
Makinde, at the groundbreaking of IBHP on December 11, 2021, said the initiative was part of his administration’s efforts to address the energy deficit in Oyo State by creating a conducive environment for power investors.
“We are here today to make history as we commission this first phase of a project that I believe is pivotal to the future development in our dear state.
“This is what we have been doing in Oyo State for the past five and a half years. This power project plant is 100 per cent private investment.
“Truly there are better days ahead for the Oyo State economy; we are seeking more investors in the energy sector to meet the energy deficit in the state.
“There is market for that and this is demonstration that you have a serious and responsible government in Oyo State that would continue to provide enabling environment for business to thrive.”
In his remarks the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Seun Ashamu, described the initiative as a reflection of Makinde’s vision for energy self-sufficiency in the state.
“The transition to gas means that we have taken serious and tangible steps towards reducing carbon emissions in Oyo State as we put an end to the use of dirty fossil fuel generators.
“It is of importance that Oyo State is one of the six states in Nigeria that have, or are in the process of transiting electricity regulator as sub national government.”
Also in his presentation, the Managing Director/Co-Chief Executive Officer, Elektron Energy Limited, Mr Tola Talabi, lauded the state government for partnering with the company.
“Oyo State Government has really set itself apart among the states in Nigeria by being one of the first to enact a state electricity act.
“Oyo State has set the pace to drive investment into the power sector.”
The event had in attendance the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal; PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja; former deputy governors, Engr. Hamid Gbadamosi and Barr. Hazeem Gbolarumi.
Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Adebo Ogundoyin; the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima; the State Government, Prof Olanike Adeyemo.
Also in attendance were Chief of Staff to the governor, Hon. Segun Ogunwuyi; former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sumonu; notable businessman and elder statesman, Chief Bode Amoo.
Chairman and co-chairman of the Oyo State Elders’ Council, Dr Saka Balogun and Elder Wole Oyelese; President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Chief Bayo Oyero; Mama Elizabeth Akinyele.
Others were; former PDP chieftains; Local Government chairmen, service commanders, traditional rulers, religious leaders and labour union leaders, among other dignitaries. (NAN)
(www.nannews.ng)
