Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating an environment-friendly ecosystem that promotes manufacturing, job creation, and sustainable economic growth.

The governor stated this during the groundbreaking ceremony for a 100MW Power Generating Plant and a 300 Metric Tons Per Day Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Facility at the Taihu Industrial Park in Ologbo, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of the state.

Okpebholo described the project as a significant milestone in Edo State’s drive toward industrial growth, energy security, and economic transformation.

According to him, the initiative will not only boost power supply but also attract investment, stimulate industrial activity, and create employment opportunities for the people of the state.

“We are happy that this major investment is taking place during our administration. In Edo State, we do not sign cosmetic Memoranda of Understanding; we follow due process and the law to deliver real development,” the governor said.

He added that the state government quickly embraced the project when it was proposed, partnering with the investors and providing land to facilitate its take-off.

“What matters to us is investment that will create opportunities for our people. We are committed to providing an enabling environment for businesses to thrive in Edo State,” he said.

Okpebholo noted that the project aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing that stable power supply remains the backbone of industrialization.

“With this power plant, we are creating an environment-friendly ecosystem that will support manufacturing, job creation, and sustainable economic growth in Edo State,” he added.

The governor also urged the host community to maintain peace and cooperate with investors to ensure the success of the project.

Chairman of Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, Hon. Eric Osawaru, described the groundbreaking as a major milestone not only for the local government but also for Edo State and Nigeria’s energy sector.

He said the project demonstrates the impact of visionary leadership, private sector investment, and strong community collaboration.

“For the people of Ikpoba-Okha, this project represents employment opportunities, skills development, infrastructure expansion, and community empowerment,” Osawaru stated.

Speaking on behalf of the host community, Deacon Osazuwa commended the governor for creating an investment-friendly environment that has boosted investor confidence in the state.

“We appreciate the choice of Ologbo for this project. This investment will significantly boost economic activities in the local government area,” he said.

Edo State Commissioner for Power, Paul Usebor, noted that the initiative represents another bold step in the state’s journey to become a hub for reliable electricity generation, industrial expansion, and sustainable economic development.

He said the 100MW power plant would significantly strengthen electricity supply within Edo State and neighboring regions, while the LNG facility would enhance cleaner energy utilization and energy security.

Also speaking, Jiang Fan, representing the Managing Director of Taihu, assured that the facility would guarantee reliable electricity supply for industries and communities upon completion.

According to him, the first phase of the Taihu Benin Industrial Park will occupy 29 hectares of land in Ologbo and is being developed by CCETC, the project’s major contractor.

He added that the project, expected to be completed within six months, will provide stable and reliable support for regional energy supply and industrial development.