* As wife launches sale of pre-paid meters
By Kingsley Abavo in Benin
The Wife of Edo State governor, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki has flagged off the sale of 500,000 pre-paid meters to residents across local government areas in the State.
This in line with the determination of the Governor Godwin Obaseki administration to finish strong at all fronts; to help provide succour for the people in the face of difficult times, it was said.
She said the initiative was geared to make electricity meters affordable for residents, eliminate estimated billings and boost Small and Medium Scale businesses.
Betsy who disclosed this during the launch of the meters in Benin City, asserts that the Edo State Government was passionate about ending sufferings of the people, hence the initiative.
The Edo governor’s wife also lauded the Benin Disco and other partners for their collaboration, and urged for adequate awareness on the registration processes to enable the people key into the project.
Also, the State Commissioner for Mining, Energy, Oil and Gas, Hon. Enaholo Ojiefo said the project was part of the governor Godwin administration’s drive for 24 hours power supply in the State.
According to him, residents who apply and make payment through the dedicated portal would be connected within two weeks.
“The distribution processes would be 100 percent transparent for Edo people.
“There is a committee which included the local government Chairman, and there would be registration centers across the 18 councils.
“The Edo State Government also intends to solar-power places of worship, hospitals, hotels and SMEs. We will build solar for them , so they can pay after four years.
“Recall that the Edo State Government’s push for stable power led to the birth of Ossiomo power plant and the new electricity law which is what we are enjoying.
“Edo would have spent 30 percent of its budget on diesel if not for Obaseki’s electricity project through Ossiomo which is powering the Edo government facilities.”