Ola Akinwunmi
In a significant stride toward transforming Ekiti State’s energy landscape, the Federal Government has delivered critical infrastructure for two high-capacity 132/33KV substations and transmission lines, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s quest for stable electricity.The equipment, received at the Omisanjana 132/33KV substation in Ado Ekiti, includes 15 truckloads of transformers, transmission poles, wires, and accessories.
Ekiti State Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Prof. Bolaji Aluko, alongside Victor Famoroti, General Manager of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) in Ekiti, oversaw the delivery.The substations, slated for installation in Ilupeju Ekiti and Ijesa Isu Ekiti, will bolster bulk power transmission to northern regions and other senatorial districts, with a switching station in Ikere Ekiti.
Once operational, the facilities will add 240MVA capacity—four 60MVA transformers—to Ekiti’s grid, significantly expanding the state’s current 140MVA capacity at Omisanjana.“This is a game-changer,” declared Prof. Aluko. “These substations will bring reliable electricity closer to our people, reducing power losses caused by long-distance transmission. The more stations we have, the better the quality and reach of electricity across Ekiti.”
The project, ongoing for three years, has seen incremental equipment deliveries, but this consignment—the largest to date—signals the final phase. Installation and testing are projected to conclude by year-end.
Aluko praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji and the Federal Government for expediting the initiative, emphasizing its alignment with Ekiti’s Independent Power Project (IPP), which began addressing the state’s lack of local generation.The new infrastructure will not only distribute power efficiently but also enhance Ekiti’s ability to absorb additional energy from the national grid and future generation projects. “No longer will there be excuses about inadequate transmission lines,” Aluko stated, highlighting the state’s readiness to leverage emerging energy opportunities.
Residents and businesses in Ekiti, long plagued by erratic power supply, anticipate transformative outcomes. The upgrades promise to spur economic growth, improve healthcare and education services, and elevate quality of life.
As installation crews prepare to unload the equipment, Ekiti stands on the brink of an electrifying new chapter—one where darkness gives way to light, powered by collaboration and cutting-edge infrastructure.