MICHAEL AKINOLA
The Federal Government has commissioned a new mini-grid electricity project in Oke-Oyi community in Kwara State, a project designed to power over 1,800 households and small businesses and boost economic activities in the rural area.
The project, which was officially commissioned on behalf of the Federal Government, is part of ongoing efforts to expand access to reliable and sustainable electricity for underserved and unserved communities across the country.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, the Minister charged members of the Oke-Oyi community to take ownership of the newly commissioned assets and to protect them against vandalism and criminal interference.
He described the mini-grid as a strategic investment built for the immediate benefit of the people and for the prosperity of generations to come, noting that rural electrification remains central to the Federal Government’s plan for inclusive national development.
He officially declared the project commissioned on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria and congratulated the Oke-Oyi community and all stakeholders who contributed to its successful delivery.
According to the Minister, the project goes beyond just providing electricity, as it is expected to unlock productivity, create jobs and improve the quality of life for residents.
“As we energize this community, we are also energizing businesses, creating opportunities, empowering young people, improving livelihoods, and building a more resilient future for Nigeria,” the Minister said.
He commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose administration, he noted, continues to pursue fundamental reforms required to build a stronger, more reliable and more sustainable electricity sector for the country.
He said the administration is committed to addressing Nigeria’s long-standing energy challenges through innovative solutions that combine grid expansion with off-grid interventions.
The Oke-Oyi mini-grid, which is set to power 1,800 businesses and households, adds to a growing portfolio of rural and off-grid electrification projects being delivered under the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration.
The project is expected to provide clean and affordable electricity to petty traders, artisans, cold room operators, barbers, welders and other small and medium scale enterprises that depend heavily on electricity for their daily operations.
Residents who previously relied on generators and other alternative sources of power are now expected to enjoy improved power supply for their homes and businesses.
Stakeholders at the event noted that access to reliable electricity will also improve healthcare delivery, support learning in schools and enhance security in the community, especially at night.
The Federal Government said it will continue to expand access, strengthen energy security and advance Nigeria’s transition toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future through similar interventions in other rural communities across the six geo-political zones.
It added that the protection and sustainability of the facility will depend largely on the cooperation of the host community, urging traditional leaders, youth groups and other stakeholders to collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure its long-term success.
Community leaders, in their response, thanked the Federal Government and the implementing partners for bringing the project to Oke-Oyi, assuring that the community will protect the facility against vandalism.
