The NEPL/Seplat Joint Venture (JV) has marked significant milestones with the commissioning of a solar-powered mini-grid, a borehole, and the graduation of the pioneer cohort of its Youth Entrepreneurship Programme (YEP) in Ologbo N’ugu, Edo State.
Themed “Building Capacity for a Greener Grassroots Economy,” the initiative is designed to improve access to electricity, potable water, and youth-driven employment in the host community.
The mini-grid, with an 18.45 KWp solar array, 30 KWh battery, and 20KVa inverter, now provides stable electricity to 138 households and businesses. The borehole project enhances clean water access. The YEP equips young people with hands-on training in solar energy solutions, including design, installation, and maintenance.
Speaking at the event, Director of External Affairs & Social Performance, Seplat Energy Plc, Chioma Afe, appreciated the community’s support. “It is one thing for partners to want to do good, but another for the community to create an enabling environment,” she said. “This mini-grid is a beacon of sustainable energy, lighting up homes and businesses.”
She described the YEP graduates as “torchbearers for a new era in Edo and Delta States—the NEPL/Seplat JV ambassadors—equipped to transform the energy landscape.”
Representing Edo State governor Senator Monday Okpebholo, the director general, Edo State Electrification Agency, Hon. Saturday Egbadon, commended the JV for aligning with the administration’s “Operation Light Up Edo State.” “It fits perfectly into our strategy to bring power to rural and underserved communities,” he said.
Special adviser to the governor on Oil and Gas, Barr. Felix Osemwengie Isere, called the initiative a boost to the state’s inclusive development goals, advocating for deeper local participation in future projects in line with the governor’s local content policy.
Leader of the NEPL delegation, Owunari Tomikeimieye, emphasised the impact of sustainable energy, youth empowerment, and clean water in driving long-term community development.
Ero of Umughunu, Chief Gius Eheneden, on behalf of the Ologbo N’ugu autonomous community, expressed gratitude, calling it “a new dawn in our relationship with the oil and gas industry.”
The JV partnered with EtinPower Limited to train 53 youths, rewarding six top performers with special prizes.
The NEPL/Seplat JV continues to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals through investments in grassroots energy access, human capital development, and infrastructure.
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