Seyi Makinde Boasts That Oyo State Will Be First to Achieve Electricity Sufficiency in Nigeria

Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, has proudly declared that the state would be the first in the country to achieve energy sufficiency.

Expressing the longstanding commitment of his administration towards achieving energy sufficiency in Oyo State, the governor emphasized the state’s readiness to collaborate with the British American Tobacco (BAT), Ibadan Plant, to realize this goal.

Makinde conveyed this commitment during his attendance at the 20th Anniversary celebration of the BAT Ibadan Plant, held at the company’s premises in Ibadan on Tuesday.

He commended the company for its contributions to Oyo State over the years, pledging to maintain the conducive business environment that enables BAT and other companies to thrive in the state.

The governor highlighted the state’s intention to collaborate with BAT to enhance electricity supply, stating, “You are going to be commissioning a 1.4 megawatts solar plant. This is pretty much in line with our aspiration in Oyo State.”

“For us, energy sufficiency is a big part of this administration. When I came in, there was no Energy Ministry, but we now have and the Commissioner for the Ministry is here.

“Less than 3km from here, you have the City Gate for the gas coming into Ibadan. So, we should be able to work together to utilize Nigerian gas in this environment.”

Stating that he would soon sign the Bill establishing the Oyo State Electricity Regulatory Commission, Governor Makinde maintained that the state will also, within the next few weeks, commission its 11 Megawatts Power Plant, with 10 Megawatts gas-driven while 1 Megawatt is solar-powered.

He praised BAT for achieving a historic milestone in Nigeria and acknowledged the company’s multifaceted contributions to the state’s development.

Chief Kola Karim, Chairman of BAT Nigeria, highlighted the company’s role in Nigeria’s economic growth and prosperity over the past century, while Managing Director, Mr. Yarub Al-Bahrani, reaffirmed BAT’s commitment to sustaining its legacy of success and economic growth in Oyo State and Nigeria.

Accompanying the governor on his visit were high-ranking officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, along with commissioners and other government functionaries.

Read more: Don’t just condemn, show us the way—  APC Spokesman 

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