Ondo State Partners with NERC, TCN to Boost Power Supply

In a decisive move to address power supply challenges and enhance electricity distribution across Ondo State, the State Government has joined forces with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO), and the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to revive and complete the critical Owode 330/132/33 KVA substation project in Akure.

The initiative follows concerns over the state’s current power supply, which stands at less than 30 megawatts compared to the urgent need for about 700 megawatts to meet growing demand. The Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. (Dr.) Johnson Alabi, stressed the strategic importance of the Owode substation, which had stalled, nearly becoming moribund, despite its potential as a game changer for electricity distribution in Ondo.

During a high-level meeting held in Abuja, Engr. Alabi commended the proactive collaboration among the state and federal agencies, recalling the pivotal role these bodies played in the earlier decentralization process that granted Ondo State full regulatory rights over its electricity sector. With this renewed partnership, the state is committed to supporting TCN to complete the Owode project, ensuring rapid power distribution from the substation once fully operational.

NERC’s Vice Chairman, Musiliu Oseni, acknowledged the delays in the project’s execution but expressed optimism that the recent engagement would yield positive outcomes. Similarly, the Executive Director of NISO, Engr. Shehu Aliyu, highlighted ongoing efforts since 2023 to connect the substation to the grid, albeit challenged by Right of Way complications. Plans are underway to finalize agreements with contractors and secure necessary approvals from the Bureau of Public Procurement and the Federal Executive Council.

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This cooperation marks a continuation of Ondo’s strides in power sector decentralization and infrastructure enhancement. The state recently took over regulatory oversight of its electricity market from NERC, embodying a broader goal of fostering localized management and tailored solutions for electricity distribution.

Completion of the Owode substation, alongside other projects in the state such as the Ode Erinje 132/33KV substation commissioned in 2024, signals a renewed commitment to providing reliable and adequate electricity to Ondo residents and supporting economic growth. The government’s official information officer, Debbie Funmilayo, noted that detailed project documentation and requirements would be formally requested to expedite the substation’s completion.

This partnership reflects the state’s determination to transform its power supply landscape, enhance service delivery, and unlock the potential benefits of stable electricity for residential, commercial, and industrial use across Ondo State.