Groundbreaking: We Are Creating Environment Friendly Ecosystem For Manufacturing, Job Creation And Sustainable Economic Growth Says Okpebholo
Edo State governor Senator Monday Okpebhol has disclosed that his administration has continued to formulate and implement policies that have created a friendly ecosystem for manufacturing, job creation and sustainable economic growth and development.
Governor Okpebholo made the disclosure at Ologbo in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of the State while performing a groundbreaking ceremony for the establishment of a 100MW Power Generating Plant and 300 Metric Tons Per Day LNG Facility, Taihu Industrial Park in Ologbo.
He said that the event marks another achievement for him administration towards industrial growth, energy security and economic transformation, noting that the project will bring prosperity to Edo people and open more doors of opportunities for cooperation between his administration and investors.
"We are happy that this great investment is happening in our time. I am not signing MoU but following the law to develop the State. We don't sign fake MoU but follow laws in Edo State.
"Today marks another achievement in the State towards industrial growth, energy security and economic transformation. We are gathered here to perform the ground breaking ceremony for this new power generating and energy processing plants.
"I warmly welcome CCETC, as this project reflects your growing confidence in Edo State as a destination for investment and industrial friendliness.
"When we were first approached on this power plant project, we didn't waste time in grabbing it , partnering with the Company and offering free land for the project.
"What we have here is our land, take it and invest here in Edo State. What matters to us is the investment not the money as we can't behave like others.
"My administration will not probe anybody but the system will and that is what we are experiencing today".
Gov Okpebhole said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu believes that power is the backbone of industrialisation, noting that his administration will utilize the power to create an environment friendly ecosystem for manufacturing, job creation and sustainable economic growth in Edo State.
"Inline with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, power is the backbone of industrialisation and with this power plant we are creating an environment friendly ecosystem for manufacturing, job creation and sustainable economic growth in Edo State.
"To the host community, I urge you to continue to demonstrate hospitality for which we are known for. We are known for developmental stride where communities and investors work together.
"I therefore encourage the host community to support this project, maintain peace, and protect this investment for lasting growth, development and profit to our people.
"To our investors and partners, the Edo State government remains committed to protecting your investment and providing the enabling environment for business to thrive".
In his welcome address, the Chairman of Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State, Hon. Eric Osawaru said the groundbreaking is a very important milestone for the local government, state and Nigeria's energy sector.
He noted that the commencement of the 100MW Power Generating Plant and 300 Metric Tons Per Day LNG Facility is a clear demonstration of what can be achieved when visionary leadership, private sector investment and community partnership come together for development.
"For the people of Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, this project represents jobs, skills development, infrastructure growth and community empowerment".
Speaking for the host community, Deacon Osazuwa commended governor Okpebholo for creating a friendly environment which has improved investors confidence in investing in Edo State.
"We thank you for choosing Ologbo for this investment, your name will ever remain on our lips as this investment will boost economic activities in the local government area".
Commissioner for power Edo State Paul Usebor said the event is another bold step in the journey to transform Edo State into a hub for reliable power generation, industrial growth and sustainable economic development.
He commended the governor whose administration has demonstrated that reliable and efficient power supply is not just an aspiration but a fundamental pillar to development, job creation and improved quality of life of Edo people.
"100MW generation power plant will contribute meaningfully to strengthen electricity supply within Edo State and beyond. The 300 Metric Tons Per Day LNG Facility represents a strategic investment in cleaner energy, improved gas utilization and greater energy security".
Jiang Fan who represented MD Taihu explained the reason for the shutdown of the Ossiomo power plant assured that the power generation facility when completed in six months will guarantee reliable power supply for industries and communities.
Phase one of the Taihu Benin industrial park project is planned to be located in the Ologbo area of Edo State and it will cover an area of 29 hectares developed by CCETC which also serves as the major contractor.
Upon completion, the projects will provide stable and reliable support for regional energy supply and industrial development.