The Edo State Government has finalized plans to expand Ossiomo Power to additional senatorial districts within the state. This is part of a renewed effort by the administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki to address power supply issues and promote industrialization.
In an interview with journalists, Dr. Uwa Igiehon, Managing Director of Ossiomo Power, revealed that the project, which has provided steady electricity to power public infrastructure and government buildings in the Benin capital, will now be extended to ensure steady power supply throughout all Edo communities.
The Obaseki-led state government came up with the idea for the Ossiomo Power project in an effort to make the state’s electricity supply self-sufficient. A Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) between Ossiomo Power Company and the government gave birth to the 95MW facility, which supplies electricity to hospitals, government buildings, and streetlights in Benin City.
The facility provides a steady supply of electricity for 22–24 hours every day to various locations, including Edo Tech Park, Edo Creative Hub, and Emotan Gardens Estate. Among other places, the Edo Enterprise and Industrial Park are also receiving power extensions.
In order to re-enact a new law that provides for the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity for state residents, the state also passed a bill repealing the Rural Electricity Board Law of 1972. This opens the door for the creation of an electricity market in the state.
“We are not resting on our oars; we will provide more and extend, and particularly with the new law in Edo state, we are more empowered to achieve even more,” Ogiehon stated, offering comfort on the infrastructure’s expansion to provide power throughout the state around-the-clock.
We fully intend to carry out Governor Obaseki’s very specific plan to expand the facility to other senatorial districts in the state. We are also equipped to handle and resolve any problems that may arise in the areas of gas, generation, transmission, and distribution.
In keeping with the government’s goal, he further urged everyone who uses electricity to support and participate in the efforts to liberalize the state’s electricity market.
In response to the interruption of gas supply to the Ossiomo Power Plant in Ologbo, within the state’s Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, Ogiehon declared that all essential steps had been taken to address the issue.
“Let me make it absolutely clear that we are one of the few power companies in this country that does not owe gas suppliers,” he said, noting that the company does not owe the government or anyone else for the supply of gas.
“We operate as a cash flow waterfall, wherein we receive payment from our clients and they receive payment from us.” They have an obligation to supply gas, and we owe them nothing. It is their responsibility to clarify why they are unable to consistently supply within their system.
“It has become imperative for everyone to be involved,” stated the Ossiomo MD. We have done our best, and now the state government and other notable institutions in the state are among the larger public that purchase and utilize electricity.”
