- Five mini-grid projects with a combined capacity of 17.7MW and a 17.74MWh battery storage system are set to expand electricity access in Oyo State.
- Power Minister Joseph Tegbe ruled out electricity tariff increases and outlined plans to strengthen the national grid and improve power supply nationwide.
The Federal Government has launched five interconnected mini-grid projects in Oyo State to expand electricity access and support economic activity.
Power Minister Joseph Tegbe announced the initiative during a groundbreaking ceremony in Ibadan. He also dismissed reports of a possible electricity tariff increase.
The projects will serve communities across Akinyele, Ido, Ibadan North, Egbeda and Lagelu local government areas. Specifically, they cover Bola, Jiboye, Molade-Adelubi, Ogo Oluwa and Sooko-Elega.
Together, the mini-grids will deliver 17.7 megawatts (MW) of capacity, supported by a 17.74-megawatt-hour (MWh) battery energy storage system.
Mini-Grids Target Better Electricity Access
According to Tegbe, the projects will improve electricity access for households and businesses. In turn, more reliable power could reduce dependence on generators, extend business operating hours and create opportunities for investment and employment.
The minister linked the initiative to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda to expand electricity access nationwide.
Furthermore, he noted that the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) had supported similar interventions in Kwara, Niger, Nasarawa, Plateau, Adamawa and Kaduna states.
Tegbe acknowledged the contributions of the REA, project developer Paras Energy and Natural Resources Development Limited, the World Bank and Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company.
He also commended the Oyo State Government, traditional rulers, community leaders and host communities for supporting the initiative. In particular, he recognised the Olubadan of Ibadanland for his contribution to the project’s realisation.
FG Outlines Plans to Strengthen the National Grid
Meanwhile, Tegbe ruled out plans to increase electricity tariffs and urged Nigerians to disregard reports suggesting otherwise.
He said the government was working towards round-the-clock electricity supply through designated energy corridors. These include the Lagos-Ogun, Abuja-Kaduna-Kano and Benin-Enugu-Port Harcourt corridors.
Beyond these zones, the government plans to strengthen the national grid and improve generation and transmission infrastructure across eastern and western Nigeria.
Tegbe identified Funtua, Kainji, Gwagwalada, Gombe, Makurdi, Ajaokuta, Ikot Ekpene, Benin and Egbin among the strategic locations for these improvements.
According to the minister, the planned upgrades will extend grid stability beyond the initial energy zones. Ultimately, the government aims to improve electricity reliability nationwide.
Projects Expected to Support Local Economies
Tegbe formally launched the mini-grid projects on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He expressed hope that their completion would improve livelihoods and expand economic opportunities in beneficiary communities.
He added that collaboration among government agencies, private companies and development partners remained essential to addressing Nigeria’s electricity challenges.