By Hosea Parah, Abuja

In a significant move to address long-standing power challenges and bolster energy infrastructure, the Federal Government has approved two major power projects in Oyo State. The projects, greenlit during Monday’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, include the revitalization and concession of the Ikere Gorge Hydropower Plant and the construction of a high-capacity substation in Ibadan.

Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, announced the developments in a press briefing, describing them as a crucial part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and an important step towards a more stable and efficient national grid.

The Ikere Gorge Hydropower Plant, located in Iseyin Local Government Area, will be upgraded from its current capacity of 6 megawatts (MW) to 20MW. Originally launched in 1979 under the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo and commissioned in 1980 by President Shehu Shagari, the plant had suffered years of neglect. Under a new 30-year public-private partnership (PPP) arrangement, it will now be revitalized by Messrs Quaint Power and Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, following the failure of the initial preferred bidder to conclude contract terms.

Adelabu emphasized that the revamped plant would significantly improve electricity access for communities in Oke Ogun and surrounding areas, with a revised concession fee that ensures long-term viability and accountability.

In a parallel effort to reduce grid instability and frequent outages in the state capital, the FEC also approved the construction of a 2 x 60MVA, 132/33KV transmission substation at the Lalupon/Ejioku axis in Lagelu Local Government Area. The facility will serve key areas including Iwo Road, Monatan, Olodo, and their environs. This project forms part of the ongoing Siemens-backed Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) and is being directly funded by the Federal Ministry of Power.

As part of the broader infrastructure overhaul, the government will also upgrade the 60-year-old Ayede 330KV substation and construct a new 330KV substation at Asejire to further reinforce the grid. All components of the project are scheduled for completion within 24 months.

“These interventions will directly uplift livelihoods, attract industries, and position Oyo State as a model for Nigeria’s energy transition,” Adelabu stated, highlighting the transformative impact the projects will have on small businesses, industries, schools, and healthcare institutions.

Special Adviser to the Minister of Power, Bolaji Tunji, reiterated that the initiatives mark a turning point in the federal government’s resolve to close energy infrastructure gaps and support sustainable economic growth nationwide.

With over five million residents expected to benefit, the projects are poised to not only improve energy reliability in Oyo State but also generate ripple effects across Nigeria’s productivity and development landscape.