The Edo State Government has assured stakeholders of support for investment in the state's energy sector, stating that the state was desirous of exploiting its gas resources to grow the state's economy.

The Commissioner for Mining and Energy, Engr. Ethan Uzamere, gave the assurance during the commissioning of Ajoki 24-hour gas-powered electricity project provided to Ajoki Community by Enageed Resources Limited.

He said the state government liberalised the state's electricity market space to ensure private players are encouraged to invest in the sector, noting, “Monopoly is detrimental to the economy and the opening up of the market has ensured that already existing players wake up to their responsibilities.

“Edo State is no longer just a civil service state but a destination of choice for investment and industrialisation. We will not rest on our oars. We will continue to ensure that all private sector players in the energy market are provided with the enabling environment and the tools with which to function. We will continue to eliminate bureaucratic red tape.”

He said the state government’s open-door policy will ensure that every willing investor is motivated and given the requisite assistance to ensure speedy resolution of issues in the energy sector in the state.

The commissioner urged members of the community to own the asset provided by the company, adding that the project will improve economic activities, provide jobs for the people, increase hours of productivity, and check crime.

He commended Enageed Resources Ltd, the operators of OML 148 acreage for “conceiving and nurturing this laudable idea of converting that same resource that would have been flared.”

Uzamere noted, “Going forward, we will partner with you on the scalability of this initiative to meet the needs of an even greater segment of society. I want to implore members of this community to own these assets and protect them.  I will communicate with the security agencies in this area as well as the local vigilante to ensure that they prioritise the protection and surveillance of the facilities of this electrification project.”