
WE WILL CREATE ENABLING ENVIRONMENT FOR INVESTORS IN THE POWER SECTOR – ODSG ASSURES.
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has said it would not relent in creating an enabling environment for investors in the Power Sector of the state.
The Governor made this statement at the Groundbreaking Ceremony of LINC Power Energy’s 5 MegaWatts Independent Power Plant, at Ondo City, where he was ably represented by the Special Adviser on Power, Engr. (Dr) Johnson Alabi.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, noted that the Groundbreaking ceremony was yet another historic milestone in the collective drive towards energy security and economic development of the state.
“Electricity is the backbone of development; No community can achieve true socio-economic prosperity without a reliable and sustainable power supply in which this project will address by driving industries/businesses; enhancing education, healthcare delivery and technological drive, thereby reducing dependence on expensive and polluting alternative power sources like diesel generators, thus improving the quality of life for our people”.
“The recent Electricity Act Amendment by the Federal Government which now allows states to regulate their electricity markets has opened up unprecedented opportunities. For too long, our dependence on the nation grid has slowed down our progress, as erratic power supply and inadequate infrastructure has left many of our communities in darkness; Today, we are witnessing the future, whereby Ondo town takes control of its own power generation and distribution”.
“Let me reaffirm the commitment of Ondo State Government to supporting Independent Power projects such as this. Through strategic partnerships and regulatory reforms, we are working to create an environment where private sector players can confidently invest in our power supply”.
The Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, implored all stakeholders to ensure to commit supporting the project to completion, so that its benefits would reach every household, business and institution in Ondo State.
Earlier, the Project Facilitator, Mr Olumbe Akinkugbe, hinted that the vision of the project started over five years ago spurred by the need to provide accessible power for businesses and residents, as well as to give back to his hometown, gave rise to the project.
“I say congratulations to all of us, because power is for everyone not particularly about any political party. The Governor has supported us and he is clear about his plans for electricity in Ondo state at large. It is therefore pertinent we collectively see the project to fruition, even as we look forward to making Ondo kingdom the engine room of industrialization”.
LINC Power Director, Mr. Tunde Adetunji, disclosed that the Gas fired Power Plant would initially start with 5MW and scalable up to 20MW. Adding that over 200 direct jobs would be created for hardworking residents of the town and further empower local communities, boost the economy and improve their living standards.
Present at the occasion were the Chairman of Ondo West LGA Hon. Akinfolarin Ayotunde, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adesimbo Victor Kiladejo, the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom represented by the Osemawe in Council led by the Sasere of Ondo Kingdom, High Chief Johnson, former Special Adviser to the Governor on Assembly Matters, Dr. Jibayo, Former Chairman of Ondo West LGA and former Chairman of Subeb, Otunba Ade Adeniyi and other dignitaries.
According to a statement signed by the Media Officer to the Special Adviser to Governor Aiyedatiwa on Power, Debbie Funmilayo, highlights of the event were the shoveling of Sand and groundbreaking ritual by the Governor, as well as goodwill messages from special guests and well wishers.