A wave of jubilation swept through Araromi-Okeodo, a community in Ife-South Local Government Area of Osun State, as they were provided electricity after a staggering 91-year hiatus.
The agrarian community saw a massive turnout of residents who came together to celebrate the recent development over the weekend, with many of them labelling it the “miracle of the century.”
The town’s ruler, Oba Abbas Akanbi, who holds the title of Alara of Araromi-Okeodo, personally led his council and the town’s populace to the off-grid premises of the 50-kilowatt sholep energy company that played a crucial role in this milestone during its ceremonial opening.
Speaking to the press, Oba Akanbi expressed his scepticism about the possibility of having electricity during his lifetime.
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‘We have heard several stories about power supply to the community which never materialise and even when we were told of this solar power plant, we thought it is another fake promise but today, I am the most fulfilled person worldwide.’
‘We, as a community, will ensure the sustainability of the plant and protect it adequately as a means of showing our gratitude. We are sure that the community will witness more growth and development’, he said.
Engr. Olalekan Adeleke, the Managing Director of Sholep Energy Limited, has announced that the multi-million naira project received funding from both the company, the World Bank, and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) of the Federal Government. He mentioned that the off-grid power plant is set to provide electricity to more than 700 households.
Furthermore, he stated that the mini-grid power plant will furnish the community with uninterrupted electricity, 24 hours a day, along with a reliable and no-cost water supply.
The Commissioner for Energy in Osun State, Adeyemi Festus, has made it known that the state is forging collaborations with private investors to establish more power generation plants within its territory, with the goal of attracting investments. He emphasised that Governor Ademola Adeleke is dedicated to ensuring the security of these power plants.