The NEPL/Seplat Joint Venture (JV) on Tuesday commissioned a solar-powered mini-grid project in Ologbo N’ugu community, Edo State, as part of its commitment to sustainable development and rural empowerment.

The 18.45 KWp solar installation, equipped with a 30 KWh battery storage system and a 20 KVA inverter, is designed to supply electricity to approximately 138 households and small businesses in the community. In addition to the power project, the JV also commissioned a borehole to improve access to clean water and marked the graduation of the first cohort of its Youth Entrepreneurship Programme (YEP).

With the theme “Building Capacity for a Greener Grassroots Economy,” the multi-faceted initiative aims to address critical needs in power, water, and youth empowerment.

Speaking at the commissioning, Seplat Energy’s Director of External Affairs & Social Performance, Chioma Afe, praised the community for providing a supportive environment that enabled the successful execution of the projects.

“Today, the NEPL/Seplat JV celebrates not one but three monumental milestones — the commissioning of the mini-grid, the provision of potable water through a new borehole, and the graduation of young entrepreneurs trained in renewable energy solutions,” Afe said.

“This mini-grid is not just infrastructure; it is a symbol of sustainable development and progress for Ologbo N’ugu.”
Afe noted that the YEP graduates are not merely trainees but trailblazers poised to transform the energy landscape in Edo and Delta States.

She described them as “torchbearers of a greener future and ambassadors of the NNPC/Seplat JV.”
Representing Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, at the event, Director-General of the Edo State Electrification Agency, Engr. Saturday Egbadon, commended the JV’s initiatives, which he said align with the state’s rural electrification drive tagged “Operation Light Up Edo State.”

“This initiative is a perfect example of how the private sector can actively contribute to sustainable development at the grassroots,” he said.

“It complements our ongoing efforts to extend reliable electricity and basic infrastructure to underserved communities.”

Egbadon encouraged the YEP graduates to leverage their training and contribute meaningfully to the state’s energy and entrepreneurial ecosystems.

He also called on the Ologbo N’ugu community to safeguard the newly commissioned installations.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Oil and Gas Matters, Barr. Felix Osemwengie Isere, expressed gratitude to the JV for supporting the government’s inclusive development strategy.

He emphasized that projects like these demonstrate the importance of collaboration between the private sector and local communities in achieving tangible development outcomes.