… Says Edo Building Investor-Friendly Industrial Ecosystem
By Edward Oseghe
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building an environmentally friendly industrial ecosystem that will stimulate manufacturing, create jobs and drive sustainable economic growth in the state.
The governor made the declaration on Monday at Ologbo in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area during the groundbreaking ceremony for a 100 megawatts (MW) Power Generating Plant and a 300 Metric Tons Per Day Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Facility at the Taihu Industrial Park.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, Okpebholo described the project as a significant milestone in Edo State’s drive toward industrial growth, energy security and economic transformation.
He said the project reflects increasing investor confidence in Edo State and aligns with efforts to strengthen the state’s economic foundation.
“We are happy that this great investment is happening in our time. Today marks another achievement for the state toward industrial growth, energy security and economic transformation.
“We are gathered here to perform the groundbreaking ceremony for this new power generating and energy processing plant. I warmly welcome CCETC, as this project reflects your growing confidence in Edo State as a destination for investment and industrial friendliness,” the governor said.
Okpebholo emphasized that his administration prioritizes transparent governance and adherence to due process, noting that the government focuses on lawful development initiatives rather than symbolic agreements.
According to him, the state government quickly embraced the power plant proposal and provided land for the project to encourage investment and industrial expansion.
“When we were first approached on this project, we did not waste time partnering with the company and offering land for the development because what matters to us is the investment and the opportunities it will bring to our people,” he said.
The governor further noted that the project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stressing that power supply remains the backbone of industrialisation.
“With this power plant, we are creating an environment-friendly ecosystem for manufacturing, job creation and sustainable economic growth in Edo State,” he added.
Okpebholo also urged the host community to sustain its tradition of hospitality and support the project to ensure its success.
Chairman of Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, Hon. Eric Osawaru, described the project as a major milestone for the council, Edo State and Nigeria’s energy sector.
According to him, the facility will bring employment opportunities, skills development, infrastructure growth and community empowerment to residents of the area.
Commissioner for Power, Engr. Paul Usebor, said the project represents another bold step toward transforming Edo into a hub for reliable power generation and industrial development.
He noted that the 100MW plant will significantly strengthen electricity supply within Edo State and beyond, while the LNG facility will enhance cleaner energy utilization and energy security.
Speaking on behalf of the host community, Deacon Osazuwa commended the governor for creating an enabling environment that has boosted investor confidence in the state.
Phase one of the Taihu Benin Industrial Park, located in Ologbo, will occupy about 29 hectares of land and is being developed by CCETC as the major contractor.
When completed, the project is expected to provide stable energy supply for industries and communities, further strengthening regional economic development.
