Benin: Residents of Ologbo in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo have expressed their appreciation for the ongoing 100-megawatt (MW) power project and industrial park initiated by Gov. Monday Okpebholo in their community. The project, they believe, will not only enhance electricity supply but also attract investors, create jobs, and stimulate economic activities in Ologbo and its neighboring areas.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the power project, currently being developed by CCETC, includes a 100MW natural-gas-powered electricity generation facility alongside an industrial park. The project was officially launched in February as part of broader efforts to bolster electricity supply and promote industrial growth in the state.
Local residents, such as laundry operator Mr. Imowo Iyip, view the project as a significant advancement, particularly in addressing past electricity challenges. Iyip noted that improved electricity supply would decrease reliance on generators and support small businesses in the area. Pastor Friday Johnson, another resident with over two decades in the community, also highlighted the relief brought by recent enhancements in electricity supply and expressed hope that the new project would further invigorate local economic activities.
Mr. Udok Uwen, another community member, emphasized the potential benefits of the project for Ologbo and neighboring communities. He believes that better electricity supply combined with the industrial park could attract more businesses and provide employment opportunities for young people, thereby improving living standards and encouraging further development in the region.
CCETC Project Coordinator, Mr. Jiang Fan, stated that the company is collaborating closely with the state government to ensure timely completion of the facility, with significant progress already made. Fan explained that the project employs natural gas technology, with generating units rated at 2.3MW each, aiming for a total capacity of 100MW. Most of the generating equipment has arrived, and installation is substantially advanced, with 90 per cent of the foundation work completed and roughly half of the overall work plan achieved.
Fan also revealed that the project had secured necessary generation and distribution licenses, with remaining efforts focused on final preparations before electricity generation and distribution commence. The distribution system is set to cover six local government areas, with potential expansion to other parts of the state. Reliable electricity, Fan noted, would be beneficial to businesses and investors in Edo, while the industrial park and existing investments around the project area could spur further opportunities for investment and employment.
The ongoing development promises to enhance local economic participation, with construction activities already providing jobs for local workers. The planned expansion of the industrial park is expected to create additional employment opportunities for residents, further integrating them into the growing economic framework of the region.