It was a moment of celebration and jubilation as power is being restored to Ondo South senatorial district of Ondo State after 15 years of being in darkness.
The Ode Erinje Power Substation, which draws its electricity from the Omotosho Power Plant, is designed to illuminate over 2,000 communities spanning five local government areas in the senatorial district.
Commissioning the 132KV transmission line and 132/33KV substation in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), President Tinubu stated that the project have the capacity to generate uninterrupted and efficient power supply, adding that it will serve the people of Okitipupa and its environments, comprising of 5 Local Governments who have been in darkness as well.
Represented by, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, Minister, Ministry of Niger Delta Development, Tinubu highlighted the crucial role of reliable power supply in driving business success and revitalizing communities. This project, one of many in the Niger Delta area, will bring renewed hope and prosperity to the people of Okitipupa, reviving businesses and transforming the region.
“Now that the government has done its part, it’s the turn of the people to do their part by protecting the project from vandalism”.
He commended the people for the works they have done for the success of the project, urging them to continue to support the federal government. He also acknowledged the NDDC for their efforts towards the completion of the project.
In his address, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his administration’s dedication to improving infrastructure and ensuring a permanent end to the prolonged blackout in the Southern Senatorial District of the state.
“Without doubt, today’s event is a testament to our commitment to sustainable electricity supply and ensuring a permanent end to 15 years of darkness in the Southern Senatorial District of the State,” he stated.
Governor Aiyedatiwa extended a warm welcome to the Hon. Minister and acknowledged the unwavering support and leadership of President Tinubu in making this project possible.
He highlighted the role of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and its management under the Chairmanship of Mr. Chiedu Ebie and the Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for their invaluable partnership and steadfast commitment to realizing this high-impact endeavor.
He also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Royal fathers, the resilient residents of Ode-Erinje, and the entire Southern Senatorial District for their cooperation and support throughout the journey of this project.
“Your enduring commitment and good spirit have been instrumental in overcoming challenges and ensuring the success of this laudable project,” Aiyedatiwa noted.
Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the transformative benefits of the project, including job opportunities, new investments, better healthcare, and overall socioeconomic development.
“This transformative project will bring significant benefits, including job opportunities, new investments, better healthcare and support socioeconomic development in the district. Moreover, the project will, no doubt, boost economic activities and improve the quality of life for our citizens by ensuring reliable and affordable electricity supply”
“Our administration is committed to promoting collaboration with organisations with expertise and knowledge that can complement its efforts in advancing the energy sector. To this end, our government has been engaging with power companies, technology providers, regulatory bodies and other stakeholders to generate innovative solutions towards enhancing electricity generation, transmission, and distribution in the State. The ultimate goal is to create a sustainable and reliable electricity system that can meet the growing demands of citizens and support the socioeconomic growth of the State” he added.
The Managing Director/CEO, Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku noted that the 132kv Transmission line and 132kv/33 kv substation at Okitipupa, Ilaje, Ese-Odo, Irele local government Areas of Ondo, which will provide electricity for over 2,000 communities and the Ogbia-Nembe project Which cut through virgin rain forests.
He added that for the Agriculturally-rich areas, this will be a major boost for the local economy, and will facilitate more food production, processing and transportation. It is expected to be a catalyst for the development of the areas, Ondo State and the region.
“After so many years of yearning for a better Niger Delta region, the people deserve no less. Our task remains to bridge the infrastructural gaps which have existed for far too long, create the enabling environment for improved economic activities in the communities and across the Niger Delta region, and give the region a chance to help fulfil the people’s dreams in accordance with the vision of President Bola Tinubu.
In his goodwill message, the Chairman, NDDC Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie stated that the Agency keyed into the Renewed Hope vision of President Tinubu, adding that NDDC will continue to do the needful to better the life of the people.
Also Speaking, The Chairman, Senate Committee on NDDC, Sen. Asuquo Epeyong, noted that the project is a beacon of hope and achievement. He appreciated those who have played a role in making the project a success. “Let us remember that this is just the beginning, we are committed to upholding our region”.
The Orungberuwa of Ode Erinje, Oba Oladele Fredrick Akinmoye described the event as a memorable one as it ends Ondo South’s days of darkness. He saluted the courage of the people for their patience and perseverance during the time of being in darkness. Appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for fulfilling his promise to the southern senatorial district. He urged the people to see the project as theirs and do all they could to protect it.
Present at the event were; Members of the Senate Committee on NDDC, led by the Chairman, Sen. Asuquo Epeyong, Traditional rulers from Ondo South, Members of Ondo State House of Assembly led by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abayomi Akinruntan, members of the State Executive Council, among other eminent personalities.
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