The Federal Government of Nigeria has initiated a significant upgrade to the power infrastructure in Ekiti State, delivering a substantial consignment of equipment and accessories destined for two new 132/33KV substations and associated transmission lines. This initiative, aimed at bolstering electricity supply and grid stability across the state, marks a critical step towards addressing persistent power challenges and fostering economic growth. The arrival of the equipment, comprising transformers, poles, wires, and other essential components, signals the imminent commencement of construction and installation activities at the designated sites in Ilupeju Ekiti and Ijesa Isu Ekiti.
Professor Bolaji Aluko, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, formally received the equipment at the existing Omisanjana 132/33KV substation in Ado Ekiti. He emphasized the transformative potential of these new substations, highlighting their role in enhancing power transmission to the northern and other senatorial districts within the state. A switching station at Ikere Ekiti will further optimize power distribution, ensuring a more balanced and reliable supply across the region. The commissioner expressed his appreciation to both the Federal Government and Governor Biodun Oyebanji for their commitment and expedited efforts in bringing this crucial project to fruition.
The two new substations, each equipped with two 60MVA transformers, will collectively add 240MVA to the state’s existing transmission capacity, currently anchored by the 140MVA Omisanjana substation with its three transformers. This substantial increase in capacity will not only improve the availability of electricity but also enhance the quality and reliability of the power supply, mitigating voltage fluctuations and outages. Aluko projected a completion timeline of approximately six months, encompassing the installation of poles, wiring, rigorous testing, and final commissioning, anticipating full operational status by the end of the year.
The commissioner underscored the strategic importance of these substations in the context of Ekiti State’s broader power infrastructure development. He lauded Governor Oyebanji’s initiative to establish an Independent Power Project (IPP) within the state, marking the first local power generation facility. This IPP, along with the enhanced grid capacity facilitated by the new substations, will reduce Ekiti’s reliance on the national grid, providing greater energy independence and security. Aluko highlighted the current limitation imposed by the sole reliance on the Omisanjana substation for receiving 132KV and distributing 33KV power. The two additional substations will decentralize this distribution, bringing the 33KV supply closer to consumers and mitigating power losses associated with long-distance transmission.
This localized distribution approach will ensure that electricity reaches more towns with higher voltage and improved stability. Aluko explained that transmitting electricity over long distances inherently leads to power loss, and the strategic placement of these substations aims to minimize this loss, optimizing power delivery to end-users. The enhanced grid capacity also positions Ekiti State to accommodate future power generation projects, eliminating potential bottlenecks in absorbing additional power from the national grid or forthcoming independent power plants.
This comprehensive power infrastructure upgrade signifies a pivotal investment in Ekiti State’s future, laying the foundation for sustained economic development and improved quality of life for its residents. The increased power capacity will not only support existing businesses and industries but also attract new investments, driving job creation and economic diversification. Furthermore, the improved reliability of electricity supply will enhance essential services such as healthcare, education, and communication, contributing to overall social and economic progress. The project demonstrates a collaborative effort between the Federal Government and the State Government, showcasing a shared commitment to addressing critical infrastructure needs and unlocking the full economic potential of Ekiti State.
