ODSG to partner investors on Power generation and distribution
The Ondo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing stable and reliable electricity supply to all residents across the state.
The Special Adviser on Power to the Governor of Ondo State, Engr Johnson Alabi, made the commitment during a meeting with an investors in Akure.
He said the Ondo State Government was ready to partner with investors in areas of infrastructure to enhance even and sustainable development of the state.
Engr. Alabi noted that the current electricity supply to the state is grossly inadequate and the existing distribution company lacks the capacity to meet growing demands.
“The current electricity demand in Ondo State is about 800MW, yet we are only allocated with around 35MW — Sometimes dropping as low as 18MW. This is unsustainable for any meaningful economic progress,” he said.
The Special Adviser who noted that electricity supply to the state continues to deteriorate instead of improving, said the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is determined to change the narrative by assuming a more active role in the electricity sector.
Engr. Alabi also expressed concern over the dilapidated state of electricity infrastructure across the state which has remained unaddressed due to claims of lack of funds by the current managers.
“We can no longer fold our arms. It is time to take our future into our hands,” he emphasized,
He therefore called for cooperation and understanding from members of the public to help the administration deliver democratic dividends through access to improved electricity in the state
Engr. Alabi revealed that the state government is positioning the Ondo State Power Company Limited (OSPCL) to take charge of the electricity market in the state — a responsibility which he said aligned with the Ondo State Electric Power Sector Law 2020.
“With full regulatory rights, we are empowered to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity,” Alabi stated.
According to him, the rollout of the O’Datiwa Metering Initiative by the state government about seven months ago was a groundwork for improved power delivery across the state.
Engr. Alabi reiterated that the administration’s overarching goal is to transform the electricity sector by investing in quality infrastructure and stable supply, thereby boosting the state’s economy.
He explained that government would welcome suggestions and partnerships that would accelerate the implementation of existing policies under the State Electricity Law.
Speaking on behalf of the investor, Mr. Adebayo Adesina, acknowledged the widespread challenge of erratic power supply in Nigeria but noted that with strong mechanisms, it can be overcome.
He commended the government’s initiatives and expressed readiness to support the state’s efforts to bring sustainable development to the power sector.
Earlier, Engr. Stephen Bolawole, State Coordinator of the Ondo State Electricity Regulatory Bureau (OSERB), had provided insights into the technical aspects of the Electricity Act and the state’s efforts so far.
He described the collaboration as timely and essential in fulfilling the state government’s commitments to improving electricity and Infrastructural development of the state.
The meeting also served as a platform for discussions between OSPCL and the investors on power supply enhancement, revenue collection, franchise areas, expansion of substations, infrastructure development, and other key areas for collaboration.
