By Timothy Agbor/OSOGBO

[b]

The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and the Osun State Government have procured two 35KW turbines for installation at Ikeji-Ile hill top in Oriade Local Government Council of Osun State in order to provide uninterrupted electricity supply to the people of the state.

The two turbines which will create 24hours electricity for the
communities connected to the mini- hydro power generation are to be
installed at the natural water flow from Ikeji-Ile hill top aimed at solving the problem of power irregularities in the state.

Delivering the two turbines to the people of Ikeji-Ile, the Chairman, Hydro Power Electricity Generating Company for UNIDO, Engineer Atilade Oshoniyi assured that his expert team will swing into action immediately for the installation of the turbines.

He explained that the gesture is at the instance of the State Government and promised the readiness of UNIDO to continue to support the state adding that it is a new and evolving way to create empowerment for the people at the grassroots level.

Oshoniyi said that the organization has researched into the natural velocity of water flow from the Ikeji-Ile hill top saying that it has more than enough water to power 70kilowatt output being planned for the area.

While describing the gesture as novel start in assisting artisans and trading hub such as tailors, welders and other that require constant electricity to perform and export their end products, he maintained that Governor Rauf Aregbesola is passionate about the completion of the project in good time for the use of people of the state.

Speaking after receiving the turbines, the Arakeji of Ikeji-Ile and traditional ruler of Ira-Ikeji, Oba Adebayo Ogunmokun and Oba Oluropo Fatanmi commended the state Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, for responding positively to the problems of the people of the area.

They said that Governor Aregbesola has demonstrated to the people of
the state that he is a good servant of his mother land.

Oba Ogunmokun noted that the gesture will go down in history of the
state that their communities will be the first that will generate power outside PHCN[/b].

While describing the project as unique and promising fulfillment by the current administration, the traditional rulers said that it will assist in no small way the artisans whose jobs have been affected by the irregularities of power.

He assured that the entire community will give support to the state government in its efforts at enhancing economic activities at the grassroots level.

Oba Fatanmi however called on the state government to come to the aid
of the community to rehabilitate road leading to the community for easy transportation of raw materials and food items.