After 40 years in utter darkness, residents of Adafila in the Oriire Local Government area of Oyo State are now enjoying 24-hour uninterrupted power supply.
The stable power supply has led to the migration of people from surrounding towns and villages to the agrarian community.
The provision of 90 KWP which Havenhill Synergy Limited executed
is enough to cater for all commercial and domestic needs of the nearly 500 houses in the community.
At the inspection and impact assessment of the solar hybrid mini-grid project, the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu said, “Last year, President Tinubu signed into law the 2023 Electricity Act, laying the foundation for a new era of collaboration and strategic impact, where state governments play a pivotal role in shaping the electricity landscape. I must use this opportunity to assure Nigerians that the Federal Ministry of Power continues to optimize the objectives of this Act while engaging in productive multi-sectorial and multi-stakeholder engagements to chart a clear course.”
“With the delivery of this 90KwP solar hybrid mini-grid, the industrious people of Oyo state and the people of Adafila community have received another lifeline to improve upon their contribution to national development through locally-driven socio-economic growth.”
“Sustainable energy remains the most pivotal catalyst for growth and transformative change. This is why His Excellency, the President has tasked us with the responsibility of exploiting all available technologies and models to ensure the equitable deployment of sustainable energy solutions for Nigerians.
“Over the years, the Ministry has continued to optimize the mandate of the Rural Electrification Agency. Today, we witness one out of the many completed and ongoing projects in Oyo state and all 36 states including the FCT.”
“In line with our mandate to build a brighter future, these projects are not mere social infrastructure; they are beacons of hope, symbols of progress, and catalysts for change. They signify a departure from the past and a step towards a future where energy poverty is relegated to history.”
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Offiver of Rural Electrification Agency, Engr. Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad said “over the years, we have optimized the NEP to strengthen the off-grid space while deploying over 100 mini-grids and powering over 5 million Nigerians through this singular programme. With the successful implementation of the programme, we are confident in the model and positioned for an even wider impact across the nation”.
One of the beneficiaries, Alhaji AbdulFatai Balelayo testified that the solar system is 10 times better than normal electricity. “We have never had light for more than 40 years,” he said. (Vanguard)