FG Starts Oyo Power Projects to Cut Generator Dependence

The Federal Government has begun construction of five interconnected mini-grid projects in Oyo State, with a combined capacity of 17.7 megawatts, in a move aimed at improving electricity supply to homes and businesses.

The projects are expected to help communities reduce their dependence on petrol and diesel generators, which many households and business owners rely on because of unreliable public electricity supply.

Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe announced the start of construction during a groundbreaking ceremony in Ibadan. He said the projects were designed to improve access to electricity, support economic activities and create better conditions for businesses to grow.

The five projects are located in Bola, Jiboye, Molade-Adelubi, Ogo Oluwa and Sooko-Elega. They will serve communities across Akinyele, Ido, Ibadan North, Egbeda and Lagelu Local Government Areas.

The mini-grids will be supported by a battery energy storage system with a capacity of 17.74 megawatt-hours, designed to help improve the reliability of electricity supply.

The Federal Government expects the projects to help households and businesses enjoy more dependable power, extend working hours and create opportunities for investment and employment.

Tegbe said the initiative was part of the government’s wider plan to improve electricity supply across the country. He also acknowledged the roles of the Rural Electrification Agency, Paras Energy and Natural Resources Development Limited, the World Bank and the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company in supporting the projects.

The minister commended the Oyo State Government, traditional rulers and community leaders for their cooperation, including the support of the Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Minister rules out electricity tariff increase

Tegbe also dismissed reports that the Federal Government was planning to increase electricity tariffs, urging Nigerians not to be misled by such claims.

He said the government’s focus was on improving electricity supply and working towards reliable power around the clock rather than announcing a tariff increase.

The minister identified three energy corridors under the government’s broader strategy: Lagos-Ogun, Abuja-Kaduna-Kano, and Benin-Enugu-Port Harcourt. He said plans were also underway to strengthen the national grid and improve power generation and transmission infrastructure across key locations.

The Oyo mini-grid projects come amid continuing concerns about unreliable electricity and the cost of alternative power sources for homes and businesses.

Their impact will depend on the timely completion of construction and the ability to provide reliable electricity to the communities they are designed to serve.

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