Ogun Government to Acquire 9MW Hydro Power Plant for Electricity Generation

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has announced plans to take over a 9-megawatt hydro power plant located within the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority to enhance electricity supply in the state.

During an inspection of the facility, Abiodun disclosed that discussions are ongoing with the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) to finalize the acquisition process.

He noted that integrating the hydro power plant with the state’s existing 30-megawatt gas-fired power plant in Onijanganjangan would create a balanced energy mix, improving power distribution across Ogun.

The hydro power facility, commissioned in 1983, has remained underutilized despite its potential as a renewable energy source. The governor explained that the dam was originally designed for multiple purposes, including water management, irrigation, power generation, and agricultural support.

“Only one of the three turbines was ever commissioned, while the remaining two were never fully installed,” he stated. “We are working with the BPE to take over and fully optimize this power plant.”

Abiodun further revealed that engineers would soon assess the facility to determine the best approach for restoring it under the Ogun State Light Up Project, which aims to establish power plants in key locations such as Abeokuta, ljebu, Remo, and Yewa.

Beyond power generation, the governor highlighted the agricultural potential of the River Basin, suggesting that the land could be developed into farm clusters to maximize irrigation benefits. He also noted that the area is ideal for cattle farming, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Food Initiative.

Commending the initial vision behind the project, Abiodun criticized the lack of continuity in federal government projects, which often results in underutilization.

Meanwhile, he addressed concerns about perennial flooding in Isheri, clarifying that, according to the River Basin’s Managing Director, the dam is not responsible for the issue, which stems from other water sources.