By Abdullahi Lukman
The NEPL/Seplat Joint Venture has reaffirmed its commitment to clean energy, youth empowerment, and access to potable water with the commissioning of a solar-powered mini-grid, youth training graduation, and borehole project in Ologbo N’ugu, Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State.
Speaking during the inauguration, Chioma Afe, Director of External Affairs & Social Performance at Seplat Energy, highlighted the alignment of the initiatives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
She praised the local community’s cooperation in executing the projects, describing the solar mini-grid as a “beacon of progress” for powering homes and small businesses.
The mini-grid system, with a capacity of 18.45KWP, a 30KWh battery bank, and a 20KVA inverter, is expected to supply electricity to at least 138 households and businesses in the community.
In addition to the energy project, 53 young people graduated from the Youth Entrepreneurship Programme (YEP), which was conducted in collaboration with EtinPower Limited.
The programme focused on equipping participants with practical skills in solar design, installation, and maintenance. Six top-performing graduates received special recognition during the ceremony.
Edo State Governor, Mr. Monday Okpebholo, represented by Mr. Saturday Egbadon, Director-General of the Edo State Electrification Agency, lauded the initiative, noting its alignment with the state’s “Operation Light Up Edo” agenda.
Other dignitaries, including Mr. Felix Isere, Special Adviser on Oil and Gas, and Mr. Owunari Tomikeimieye of NEPL, underscored the role of community participation and long-term sustainability in the project’s success.
Chief Gius Eheneden, Ero of Umughunu, expressed the community’s gratitude, describing the developments as a turning point in their engagement with the oil and gas sector. He pledged continued community support for future projects.