Delta, Oshimili North Move to Deliver 24-Hour Electricity to Ibusa Corridor

By Ike Philip Abiagom – Newsbreeze

The Delta State Government, in collaboration with the Oshimili North Local Government Council, has commenced strategic efforts aimed at delivering 24-hour electricity supply to the Ibusa corridor under a pilot initiative approved by the state government.

The initiative is expected to address the technical, financial and regulatory challenges confronting the power sector while laying the foundation for improved electricity supply to households, businesses and industries across the area.

Speaking during an inspection tour of the Ibusa Electricity Injection Substation, the Delta State Commissioner for Power and Energy, Engr. Michael Ifeanyi Anoka (FNSE, Ph.D.), said the project was designed to move beyond policy pronouncements and establish practical mechanisms that would guarantee reliable electricity supply to communities.

According to the Commissioner, the state government is committed to working closely with relevant stakeholders to improve power infrastructure and create sustainable solutions that will enhance economic growth and improve the quality of life of residents.

The inspection was facilitated and joined by the Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government, Olorogun Innocent Esewezie, who reaffirmed his administration's commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening electricity infrastructure and ensuring improved power supply across the local government area.

Esewezie noted that access to reliable electricity remains critical to the growth of businesses, educational institutions, healthcare facilities and households. He stressed that the council would continue to collaborate with the state government, electricity distribution companies and host communities to achieve the desired results.

He described the inspection as a significant step towards addressing long-standing power challenges in Ibusa and neighbouring communities, adding that a stable electricity supply would stimulate economic activities, attract investments and create greater opportunities for residents.

The visit also provided an opportunity for officials to assess the condition of the injection substation, identify areas requiring urgent attention and explore practical measures for improving electricity distribution within Oshimili North and its environs.

Stakeholders at the event emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among government agencies, electricity distribution companies and local communities to overcome existing challenges in the power sector and ensure the successful implementation of the initiative.

Also present during the inspection were Sir Gilbert Okonji, Onowu Kizito Ijeh, officials of the Delta State Ministry of Power and Energy, representatives of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), and staff of the Oshimili North Local Government Council.

Residents expressed optimism that the initiative would mark a turning point in the quest for stable and uninterrupted electricity supply in the Ibusa corridor and across Oshimili North Local Government Area.

The proposed 24-hour electricity initiative is expected to boost commercial activities, support industrial growth, improve service delivery and contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of the area.