By Rosheedat Akinkunle, JKNewsMedia Reporter
GOVERNOR DAPO Abiodun of Ogun State has announced plans to assume control of the 9-megawatt hydroelectric power plant within the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, aiming to enhance electricity supply across the state.
During an inspection on Friday, Governor Abiodun revealed that his administration, in collaboration with the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), is finalizing the takeover process.
The project is expected to integrate the hydropower facility with the 30-megawatt gas-fired power plant in Onijanganjangan to create a diversified and stable energy mix.
Describing the dam and power plant, commissioned in 1983, as a “stranded renewable energy source,” Governor Abiodun emphasized its importance in managing water outflows, regulating local tributaries, supporting irrigation, and generating power.
“This visit is to assess how we can optimize idle power plants. In the coming weeks, engineers will evaluate the plant’s integrity and explore resuscitation strategies as part of our Ogun State Light Up Project,” he stated.
The governor also outlined plans to transform the surrounding land into agricultural clusters, utilizing the water resource for irrigation and supporting President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Food Initiative.
He further highlighted the potential for cattle farming, given the area’s abundant water supply.
Additionally, Governor Abiodun dismissed claims that the dam is responsible for recurrent flooding in Isheri, assuring that his government will investigate the matter thoroughly.
Partners with Brazilian Energy Giant Ambar Energia
In a significant step towards industrial expansion and food security, Governor Dapo Abiodun has unveiled a strategic collaboration with Ambar Energia, one of Brazil’s leading energy companies, to establish power plants across Ogun State.
During a meeting with Ambar Energia’s President, Marcelo Zanatta, Governor Abiodun underscored the significance of leveraging Nigeria’s recent constitutional amendment that enables states to generate and distribute electricity independently.
“Ogun and Lagos account for 40% of Nigeria’s total electricity consumption, with demand projected to hit 45% by 2030. Our growing industrial hubs—Ijebu-Ode, Abeokuta, Atan-Agbara, Remo, and others—urgently require localized energy solutions,” he stated.
Governor Abiodun reiterated the state’s vast natural resources, including gold, lithium, bitumen, and silica, as well as its stronghold in cement, cassava, poultry, and egg production. The partnership with Ambar Energia is expected to bolster industrialization and enhance energy security.
Furthermore, Africa’s largest garment production facility is set to begin operations at the Special Agro-Processing Zone near Gateway International Airport, with an estimated electricity demand of 300 megawatts.
Marcelo Zanatta expressed confidence in Ambar Energia’s ability to deliver sustainable energy solutions, noting that the delegation had already visited key infrastructure sites, including the Gateway International Airport, Olorunsogo Power Plant, and Onijanganjangan Power Plant.
In addition to this partnership, Governor Abiodun also welcomed a Brazilian delegation from JBJ, JBS, and SEARRA Group, led by agribusiness leader Jose Batista. Discussions centered on investments in large-scale farming and food production, with Ogun State presenting significant opportunities for agricultural expansion.
Aisha Rimi, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), commended Ogun State’s proactive investment drive, affirming the JBJ Group’s position as Brazil’s leading cattle supplier. Jose Batista reciprocated by inviting Governor Abiodun to Brazil to strengthen economic ties.
Issues Flood Alert, Urges Precautionary Measures
Ogun State government has also issued an urgent flood warning, advising residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions as the region is classified among Nigeria’s major flood-prone areas.
Speaking at a press conference in Abeokuta, Commissioner for Environment Ola Oresanya stressed the state’s commitment to mitigating flood risks through adaptation and alleviation strategies.
According to the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), rainfall intensities in Ogun State are expected to range between 965mm and 1,805mm this year, raising concerns for at-risk communities.
A Little Dry Spell (LDS) is forecast from July 21, lasting between 27 and 40 days, while a Severe Dry Spell of over 15 days is expected from April to June.
To mitigate flood risks, the Ogun State government has undertaken extensive desilting of 988.3 km of waterways and constructed 698 meters of concrete drainage systems over the past five years. Plans are in place to further expand these efforts in all three senatorial districts starting in April.
For Isheri, Akute, and Warewa—particularly flood-prone wetlands—the government will initiate new tributaries for the Ogun River and complete the dredging of Opa Aro River, reducing retention times from an annual six weeks to three weeks in 2024.
Residents in Ijebu-Ode, Ota, Owode, Abeokuta, Onihale in Ifo, Sagamu, Iperu, and Ilishan have been advised to brace for flash floods between March and July. Meanwhile, those residing in coastal flood zones—including Isheri, Akute, Warewa, and communities along the Yemule and Opa Aro Rivers—are urged to relocate before peak flooding between September and November.
The state government has warned against indiscriminate waste disposal in drainage channels and unlawful construction on flood pathways, stressing that violators will face strict penalties. Farmers have also been advised to align planting schedules with rainfall predictions to avoid crop losses.
To enhance public awareness, local government authorities have been tasked with translating weather forecasts into indigenous languages.
The Ogun State Emergency Management Authority (SEMA) has assured readiness for emergency evacuations to designated Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps if necessary.
