The Federal Government is to inaugurate the N8.1 billion Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) electricity project in Erinje, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State on May 22.
The official inauguration in Erinje would be done by the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Engr. Abubakar Momoh.
Mr Otito Atikase, the Commissioner representing Ondo State on the NDDC Board, made this known to newsmen on Thursday in Okitipupa.
Atikase said that he was delighted to announce to the good people of the state that the Erinje Electricity Project, a landmark achievement, had been fully completed.
According to him, this magnificent project which cost a substantial N8.1 billion, includes several key components – a 45km, 132kV feeder line from the Omotosho Power Plant to Erinje and two 60 MVA, 132/33kV transformers at the Erinje substation.
“Rehabilitation of 33km of 33/11kV transmission lines from Okitipupa to Igbokoda, Ugbonla and other Ilaje neighbouring communities and construction of a 1km rigid pavement with drainage.
“The Erinje power substation is specifically designed to serve five local government areas in the oil-producing belt of the state.
“These local government areas have been grappling with total darkness for the past 15 years, making this project a significant milestone in restoring electricity and hope to the communities.
“This project represents a new dawn for the residents of Okitipupa, Irele, Ilaje and Ese-Odo, as it promises an enhanced quality of life and increased economic opportunities for the people,” the commissioner said.
Atikase expressed great optimism that the socio-economic activities in the region would be significantly revamped, once the people are reconnected back to the power grid.
He called on all stakeholders to remain committed to protecting this vital infrastructure against vandalism, emphasising that security was a shared responsibility.
Atikase, however, reaffirmed his commitment to serve the interests of the people of the state, adding that he remained dedicated to advancing the developmental agenda of his beloved state.
Okitipupa, Irele, Ilaje and Ese-Odo LGAs in the Southern District of the state have been in total darkness for the past 15 years.
This was after they were removed from the national grid by the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) over alleged debt, which had since polarised socio-economic activities in the region.
