From Moshood Karim
In demonstration of Nigeria’s potential for energy independence and local ingenuity, Ossiomo Power Plant has emerged as a game-changer in the power sector, offering a sustainable solution to Edo State’s long-standing electricity challenges.
Speaking during a guided media tour of the company’s state-of-the-art facility in Ologbo, Benin City, the Managing Director, Dr Uwa Igiehon, shared insights into the transformational impact the plant is having on communities and industry alike.
Dr Igiehon noted the once dire situation in communities such as Ologbo and Obayantor, which were starved of electricity for years. “The village of Ologbo had zero power supply for six years,” he stated. “Today, it enjoys 24/7 electricity, 100 percent power access, all thanks to the Ossiomo Power Plant.”
Since reconnecting Ologbo in December 2023, demand for power has surged. “The peak load jumped from 0.5 megawatts to over 1.7 megawatts by December 2024 — more than a threefold increase,” Dr Igiehon revealed. “It’s clear that the need is there, and we are meeting it head-on.”
Ossiomo’s competitive tariffs and dependable power supply have set a new benchmark for energy provision in Nigeria. Dr Igiehon noted that Ossiomo’s offering is not only reliable but also more affordable than alternatives. “Our tariff is lower, and availability is guaranteed. That’s measurable.”
According to the World Bank, Nigeria’s average electricity consumption per capita is below 200 kilowatt-hours. “But in our catchment area, it’s now over 1,000 kilowatt-hours per person,” Dr Igiehon emphasised, painting a picture of significant progress in access to power.
With an eye on scalability, Ossiomo’s infrastructure is designed to meet increasing demand. “Our gas facilities can support up to 100 megawatts,” Dr Igiehon explained. “Our 33kV transmission line carries up to 75 megawatts, while our 11kV line serving the industrial park can supply 20 megawatts.”
He added that generation capacity is expanded in response to rising demand, ensuring that supply always meets load. “We’re not reliant on the national grid. Everything is new and purpose-built, which gives us a technical advantage.”
Aware of the prevalence of energy theft in Nigeria, Ossiomo has proactively tackled the issue using modern technology. “Every customer has a prepaid meter, and we monitor usage meticulously,” said Dr Igiehon.
Technical losses are minimal, with some measured below one percent between facilities. Commercial losses, mostly related to theft, have also reduced due to vigilant monitoring and community respect for the project. “We’ve used no government funds — not federal, not state. It’s entirely private investment. People respect that,” he added.
Contrary to perceptions that Nigerians lack the capacity to manage sophisticated infrastructure, Dr Igiehon proudly affirmed the prowess of local engineers. “From design to construction and daily operations, everything has been done by Nigerians,” he said. “We started development in 2013, began construction in 2018, and commenced operations in 2020. And here we are today, running two independent power plants.”
Ossiomo’s in-house technology centre plays a crucial role in grooming the next generation of engineers. Through a rigorous quarterly training programme, engineering graduates are recruited, trained, tested, and if successful, absorbed into full-time roles. “It’s both theoretical and hands-on. Every Saturday they sit tests. Those who pass become field engineers,” Dr Igiehon explained.
What sets Ossiomo apart is not just its technical excellence but also its holistic approach — delivering reliable power, promoting indigenous talent, and operating sustainably without government backing. As demand for decentralised, reliable power sources grows, the Ossiomo model could well serve as a blueprint for other States.
With communities now energised, businesses expanding, and local capacity being built from the ground up, Ossiomo is not just powering homes and industries — it is powering hope.
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