Lalupon Community Hails FG’s Hydropower, Substation Projects as Game-Changer for the Region

LALUPON, OYO STATE – The serene town of Lalupon in Lagelu Local Government Area of Oyo State erupted in jubilation as the Federal Government announced the approval of two transformative energy projects set to reshape the region’s socio-economic landscape. The revival of the long-dormant Ikere Gorge Hydropower Plant and the construction of a high-capacity 2 x 60MVA, 132/33KV substation in Lalupon/Ejioku have been hailed as monumental steps toward addressing Nigeria’s persistent power challenges and boosting local development.

Speaking on behalf of the Lalupon community and its vibrant youth, the Olori-Odo (Youth Leader), Mr. Olubiyi Opeyemi Rasheed, expressed profound gratitude to the Federal Government, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, House of Representatives member, Lafisoye Akinmoyede, and the Nigerian Senate member, Yunus Akintunde for prioritizing Lalupon as a key beneficiary of these landmark initiatives. In an exclusive interview, Rasheed described the projects as “a beacon of hope” that will illuminate the path to prosperity for generations.

“We, the people of Lalupon, are overwhelmed with gratitude. For years, we have grappled with unreliable power supply, which has stifled our businesses, limited opportunities for our youth, and hindered our growth. Today, the Federal Government has answered our prayers by bringing not just a substation to our doorstep but also breathing new life into the Ikere Gorge Hydropower Plant. This is a game-changer, and we are eternally grateful,” Rasheed said, his voice brimming with optimism.

For Lalupon and surrounding areas, the revitalized hydropower plant promises a stable electricity supply, which Rasheed believes will unlock untapped potential. “Our artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs will thrive with reliable power. Our youth, who are brimming with ideas, will now have the tools to innovate and build businesses that can compete locally and globally,” he noted.

The approval of the 2 x 60MVA, 132/33KV substation in Lalupon/Ejioku is set to alleviate grid pressure and end the frequent outages that have plagued the region and its surrounding areas. The substation will directly serve Iwo Road, Monatan, Olodo, and adjoining areas, providing a robust backbone for households, small businesses, industries, and institutions. Rasheed emphasized the substation’s significance for Lalupon youth, many of whom are artisans and entrepreneurs. “This substation is not just about electricity; it’s about empowering our young people to dream big. With stable power, our welders, tailors, and tech enthusiasts can work without fear of sudden blackouts. Our community will become a hub of innovation and industry,” he said.

The dual projects are expected to catalyze unprecedented growth in Oyo State by enhancing power reliability for critical sectors. Educational institutions will benefit from uninterrupted learning environments, healthcare facilities will operate advanced equipment seamlessly, and industries will find Lalupon/Ejioku and its environs an attractive destination for investment.

Rasheed painted a vivid picture of the future: “Imagine a Lalupon/Ejioku where students study under bright lights, where hospitals save lives without power interruptions, and where factories hum with activity, creating jobs for our youth. This is the vision these projects bring to life. We are ready to partner with the government to ensure the success.” He underscored the community’s proactive role in the project, noting that Lalupon leaders and landowners have already begun mobilizing to allocate suitable lands to accommodate the project. “We understand the importance of this substation. Our community is united in providing the land required to make this a reality,” he said.

The youth leader also pledged the community’s support in safeguarding the proposed project sites. “We will protect these investments with all we have. Our youth are vigilant and ready to ensure no vandalism or disruption occurs. This is our project, our future,” he declared.