By Godspower Eguasa
Over the years, research has shown that there is a strong correlation between access to electricity and economic growth for nations to successfully drive industrialization to enviable heights.
For emerging countries like Nigeria, the issue of unstable and epileptic power supply has been a major constraint to economic growth and development.
This narrative for Edo is beginning to witness a change as Governor Godwin Obaseki continues to make laudable efforts towards transforming the State into an electricity hub, thereby creating a business-friendly environment where investors can be assured of better returns on investment.
Recently, the Edo State Government emerged Best in the inaugural edition of the Nigeria Power Sector Award, held on Wednesday November 23, 2022, at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.
The Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Osa Nehikhare, who shared the heartwarming news in Government House, Benin City, recently said: “I am happy to inform you that Edo State Government emerged as the best State Government in the power sector at the inaugural edition of the Nigeria Power Sector Awards which took place on Wednesday, November 23rd, 2022 at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.
Nehikhare, while commending the developmental strides of the Obaseki-led administration towards transforming Edo into a power hub, noted that he was delighted to inform Edo of the feat as the current government has a good story to tell.
According to the organizers, “The Nigeria Power Sector Awards is an initiative designed to recognize, celebrate and promote public and private sector organizations and individuals in the NESI, who by their investment and activities have demonstrated a track record of progress, growth and innovation in the NESI.
“The Awards is a prestigious event to showcase progress, growth and innovation in the NESI and by so doing, facilitate strategic efforts at changing the narrative of the Nigerian Power Sector.”
Nehikhare maintained that the transformation occurring in the power sector is one that is obvious to all residents of the State, especially those who are direct beneficiaries of the 95MW Ossiomo Power Plant.
The Commissioner expressed the government’s gratitude to Edo residents for their collaboration and support so far in ensuring that the bold steps being taken in the power sector becomes a reality.
“This award was presented to us. I am sure you all will love to give testimony on how well we have done in the planning of our energy infrastructure.
“We have done very well there and I thought Edo people should see this and also thank them and congratulate them on what they have achieved at this time. The partnership has been excellent and we are enjoying it,” Nehikhare said.
He added: “Furthermore, you may wish to note that the Edo State Electricity Power Sector Reform Bill was passed in September 2022 creating a framework for the State electricity market with enormous benefits, thus creating an opportunity for 24-hour power supply, rapid industrialization for sustainable development and improved security for Edo residents.
“The emergence of the Edo State Government as the winner in the Nigeria power sector is one that is justifiable coupled with emerging results of a continuous increase in private sector participation in infrastructure delivery through public-private partnership arrangement in the State.”
