Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has announced a groundbreaking initiative to generate electricity within the state using local river and solar resources. Speaking in Ilesa during the launch of a new 33KV feeder line project, Adeleke emphasized his administration’s goal of achieving energy self-sufficiency for Osun and potentially exporting surplus power to neighboring states.
New Electricity Projects to Boost Local Economy
Governor Adeleke highlighted the significance of the new 33KV feeder line, which had been delayed for over 11 years. He noted that the prolonged delay had caused severe economic setbacks for residents of Obokun and three other local government areas, who endured years of blackouts and hardship. “With this project, we are not only lighting up our homes but also powering economic growth,” Adeleke stated.
The governor also unveiled a draft electricity bill and policy aimed at expanding power generation and distribution across the state. He directed the Ministry of Energy to create a detailed implementation plan with specific timelines and deliverables. “We have a robust plan to transform the state’s energy market through strategic policies and legislation,” he said.
Harnessing Natural Resources for Energy
Governor Adeleke expressed confidence that Osun’s natural resources, such as its rivers and abundant sunlight, would play a crucial role in the state’s energy strategy. “We are blessed with many rivers and solar assets,” he said. “Our plan is to harness these to generate our own electricity.”
The state government plans to issue licenses to capable entities for electricity generation, regulate the local power distributor—Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (Ibadan DisCo)—and manage relationships between power generators and buyers. This new regulatory framework aims to create a more efficient and sustainable power sector within Osun.
A Vision for Self-Sufficiency and Economic Growth
The governor stressed that a reliable power supply is essential for economic development, stating that consistent electricity would significantly boost economic activities across the state. “Our vision is for Osun to be self-sufficient in power supply,” Adeleke reiterated, “and even to become a net exporter of electricity to neighboring states.”
Adeleke also extended his congratulations to the residents of Obokun Local Government and other communities that will benefit from the new feeder line, including settlements along the Ilesa-Osogbo road, Igbajo in Boluwaduro Local Government, as well as Kajola and Osunjela in Atakumosa West Local Government. “Imole (light) has come to your doorstep,” he proclaimed.
The Commissioner for Energy, Mr. Festus Adeyemo, echoed the governor’s sentiments, emphasizing that the new project would serve multiple communities across four local government areas: Obokun, Ilesa West, Atakumosa West, and Boluwaduro. He assured the public that the initiative would significantly improve power supply in these areas.
Governor Adeleke’s comprehensive energy plan marks a significant step towards energy independence for Osun State. The administration’s focus on utilizing renewable resources aligns with broader global trends toward sustainable energy, promising a brighter, more prosperous future for the state and its residents.
Source: Punch
