Bayelsa State Prepares to Inaugurate 60MW Independent Power Plant
After months of anticipation, the Bayelsa State Government is poised to inaugurate its independent power project this month, marking a significant milestone in the state's energy sector. Governor Douye Diri announced that the 60-megawatt gas-fired turbine plant, located at Elebele Community in Ogbia Local Council Area, is 99 percent complete and ready for a test-run. The inauguration is expected to be performed by President Bola Tinubu, highlighting the project's importance to regional development.
Infrastructure Projects and Economic Impact
In addition to the power plant, Governor Diri revealed that other major infrastructure projects are also awaiting inauguration. These include the 630-metre-long Angiama-Oporoma bridge across the River Nun in Southern Ijaw Local Council Area, which is the longest bridge in the state and part of an ongoing road project to Agge. The governor noted that this bridge, initially groundbreaking by former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, is integral to improving connectivity and is slated for completion by year-end, pending funding availability.
Another key project is the newly constructed dual carriage road linking New Yenagoa City from the Gbarantoru axis, which will serve as a bypass to the Yenagoa-Mbiama road. Diri emphasized that these projects, along with the power plant, are designed to boost socio-economic development and catalyze industrial growth in Bayelsa State. He assured residents that electricity consumption would be metered and billed through a pay-as-you-go system to prevent overcharging, ensuring fair access to power.
Oyo State's Ambitious 300MW Power Roadmap
Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform its electricity sector, aiming to achieve a 300-megawatt power supply by 2027. This initiative is part of broader efforts to stimulate economic growth and enhance service delivery across the state. Prof. Dawud Sangodoyin, Commissioner for Energy and Natural Resources and acting Chairman of the Oyo State Electricity Regulatory Commission (OYSERC), disclosed this during a press briefing in Ibadan.
Sangodoyin highlighted that Oyo State currently generates between 151 and 182 megawatts, which falls significantly short of the estimated minimum requirement of 520 megawatts needed to sustain a modern, productive economy. The new roadmap aims to bridge this gap by increasing capacity through strategic investments and regulatory reforms, positioning the state for improved industrial and residential power access.
Governor Diri's Appreciation and Future Plans
Governor Diri expressed gratitude to the people of Bayelsa for their patience and support during the power project's development, which was originally earmarked for completion by December 2025. He also provided updates on other infrastructure initiatives, such as the first phase of the Nembe-Brass road project, expected to be completed by the end of 2026. These efforts underscore the state's commitment to enhancing infrastructure and energy access as catalysts for long-term prosperity.
As both Bayelsa and Oyo states push forward with their energy and infrastructure agendas, these projects are set to play a crucial role in driving economic development, improving living standards, and fostering industrial growth across Nigeria.
