The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding electricity access and accelerating economic development with the issuance of a 3MW mini-grid generation licence to Halimatu Hospital Ltd as part of broader efforts to strengthen the state’s energy infrastructure.
The state government also disclosed that it is closely monitoring the proposed 100MW Independent Power Plant (IPP) located in Ologbo, a major industrial corridor expected to play a significant role in enhancing electricity supply and supporting industrial activities within the state.
Commissioner for Power, Paul Usenbo, said the projects align with the vision of Governor Monday Okpebholo to improve infrastructure, attract private sector investment, strengthen healthcare delivery and drive sustainable economic growth across Edo State.
Speaking on the development, the commissioner explained that the 3MW mini-grid project, situated in Okpella in Edo North Senatorial District, is designed not only to provide uninterrupted electricity supply to Halimatu Hospital but also to extend reliable power access to approximately 200 households and small-scale businesses in the surrounding communities.
According to him, the initiative represents a major step towards addressing electricity challenges in underserved areas while simultaneously improving access to quality healthcare services and supporting local economic activities.
Usenbo noted that reliable electricity remains critical to the effective functioning of healthcare institutions, especially hospitals that depend on stable power for medical equipment, emergency services, laboratory operations and patient care.
He added that beyond the health sector, the project would stimulate economic activities in the area by enabling artisans, traders and small business owners to operate more efficiently without the burden of erratic public power supply.
The commissioner further disclosed that the mini-grid project is being implemented under the provisions of the Edo State Electricity Law 2025, which he said has established a comprehensive framework for electricity generation, distribution, licensing and investment within the state.
According to him, the law was enacted to create an enabling environment capable of attracting investors into the power sector while ensuring improved electricity access for residents and businesses across Edo State.
Usenbo stated that the legislation has already begun to position Edo as one of the emerging destinations for energy investment in Nigeria by providing clarity in regulation, investor protection and opportunities for public-private partnerships in the electricity sector.
He explained that the state government remains committed to leveraging private sector participation to bridge infrastructure gaps, particularly in energy generation and distribution, noting that sustainable development cannot be achieved without reliable electricity supply.
The commissioner also referenced the proposed 100MW Independent Power Plant in Ologbo, describing it as another strategic project capable of transforming industrial productivity and boosting economic activities in the state.
He said the government is actively monitoring the development of the project because of its potential to support industries, create jobs and strengthen the state’s manufacturing base.
According to him, Ologbo’s strategic location and growing industrial presence make it an ideal site for large-scale energy investments that can serve industries and surrounding communities alike.
Usenbo stressed that the Okpebholo administration is determined to ensure that communities across Edo State benefit from ongoing reforms in the electricity sector through improved access, affordability and sustainability.
He noted that the government’s broader objective is to create an electricity ecosystem that supports industrialisation, enhances social services and improves the living standards of residents.
Stakeholders in the power sector have continued to commend subnational governments pursuing independent electricity initiatives following recent constitutional and regulatory reforms that now allow states to play greater roles in electricity generation and distribution.
Industry analysts believe that projects such as the Okpella mini-grid and the proposed Ologbo IPP could significantly contribute to reducing pressure on the national grid while improving energy reliability for local communities and businesses.
Observers also note that expanding mini-grid infrastructure in rural and semi-urban communities has become increasingly important in addressing Nigeria’s longstanding electricity deficit, especially in areas with limited access to stable power supply.
The Edo State Government maintained that it would continue to encourage partnerships capable of driving innovation, infrastructure development and inclusive growth as part of efforts to position the state as a hub for investment and industrial expansion in the country.
