GOVERNOR SEYI MAKINDE'S ENERGY REVOLUTION AND BARR. SEUN ASHAMU'S ROLE IN POWERING IDEAS TO TRANSFORM OYO STATE —Akinloluwa Akinbode

Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration keeps redefining governance in Oyo State with groundbreaking initiatives and stellar performances aimed at improving the state’s economy, education, healthcare and security. At the heart of this transformation is the commitment to sustainable energy development, spearheaded by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. The state government's commitment to improving energy access, particularly through the development of sustainable power projects is a pivotal aspect of transformation. 

The recently commissioned 11MW Ibadan Hybrid Power Plant stands as a monumental project aimed at enhancing energy security for critical infrastructures in the state capital. This project integrates renewable energy with conventional power sources, the plant ensures an uninterrupted power supply to essential facilities, including hospitals, schools, government offices and stadium.

The successful implementation of Oyo State's energy projects can be attributed to the dedicated efforts of Barr. Seun Temilolu Ashamu, the Honourable Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources. Despite being a Pioneer-Commissioner of the ministry, which was birthed in 2019, Ashamu has been at the forefront of executing Governor Makinde's vision for energy security and sustainability.

Under his stewardship, the Ministry has initiated several projects aimed at expanding energy access, particularly in underserved communities. One notable initiative is the launch of solar-hybrid mini-grid projects designed to provide electricity to rural areas, thereby fostering economic development and improving living standards. 

Key achievements under this administration include:

• Securing partnerships with private investors for the development of renewable energy projects.

• Expanding the scope of rural electrification to reach even the most remote communities.

• Ensuring efficient project execution and long-term sustainability through innovative policy frameworks.

 The Light-Up Oyo Project is a state-wide electrification programme of great significance initiated to improve security, economic activities and residents’ quality of life. The project focuses on installing solar-powered streetlights across urban and rural areas. Cities such as Ibadan, Ogbomoso, Iseyin, Saki, Oyo town and many more have benefitted significantly, with thousands of kilometers illuminated by modern streetlight systems. This initiative has improved nightlife, reduced crime rates and boosted local businesses, especially night commerce. Essentially, over 100 primary healthcare centres across the state have been equipped with solar lighting systems, ensuring uninterrupted power for critical medical procedures, especially at night and water supply from boreholes. 

The state has also invested heavily in solar energy to provide sustainable electricity to underserved communities. Some notable projects include Solar-Powered Mini-Grids that are operational in remote areas, providing electricity to rural households and small businesses.

Barr. Ashamu has also been instrumental in facilitating partnerships with private sector entities to further the state's energy objectives. A notable example is the collaboration with Shell Nigeria Gas on infrastructure development and distribution projects, which are expected to enhance the state's energy capacity and distribution network that will attract industrial investments and power industries on the Ibadan-Oyo industrial corridor. Thanks to visionary leadership and a steadfast commitment to progress.