‘Power For Profit, Prosperity,’ Sahara Kicks Off 12MW IPP For Lagos Industrial Hub

● Plots ‘The End For Blackout, Generator Noise in Acme, WEMCO, Ogba Hub

Thousands of businesses, residents and public institutions in Ogba, Acme Road, Wemco Road and surrounding areas are counting down to more stable electricity, as construction officially begins on a new 12MW Independent Power Plant in Lagos.

The gas-fired facility, being developed by Sahara Power Enterprise Group, SPEG, is located within the Ogba Undertaking of Ikeja Electric Plc. It is designed to tackle one of Lagos’ most persistent headaches: unreliable power in a critical industrial and commercial corridor.

The groundbreaking ceremony, attended by government officials, industry stakeholders and traditional rulers, marked the start of work on a project scheduled for completion in Q1 2027.

For SPEG, the plant is more than concrete and turbines. “This initiative is about much more than breaking ground for a new power plant. It represents a bold commitment to Nigeria’s energy future,” said Kola Adesina, Group Managing Director, Sahara Power Enterprise Group.

Adesina said the project is aimed at delivering “dependable, efficient, and sustainable electricity to businesses and communities,” noting that improved power availability will directly translate to enhanced productivity, growth, and value creation.

The Ogba axis hosts hundreds of manufacturers, SMEs, retailers, schools and hospitals. For years, operators there have battled supply disruptions and high diesel costs. The new plant is positioned to change that equation.

According to SPEG, the facility will use modern gas-powered generating technology configured in a six-unit structure. The design allows for operational flexibility and continuity of service even during routine maintenance.

That means fewer total blackouts. The plant is expected to provide a stable source of electricity to manufacturers, SMEs, retailers, residential communities and public institutions within the coverage area.

Adesina applauded key partners for making the project possible, including the Federal Government, Lagos State Government, Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission, LASERC, Ikeja Electric, and Cummins.

Ikeja Electric, the distribution company for the area, described the plant as a game-changer. “At Ikeja Electric, our priority is to partner with forward-looking investors and developers such as SPEG to deliver innovative solutions that improve customer experience and reliable electricity supply,” said Ogochukwu Onyelucheya, Acting CEO.

She added that the plant will provide a more dependable and cost-effective source of electricity for businesses and communities, while also supporting economic activity and job creation.

Local government leaders welcomed the development. Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa, Executive Chairman of Agege Local Government, said independent power projects are “essential to achieving energy security and sustainable development” and will help attract investment and jobs.

The Engineering, Procurement and Construction contract has been awarded to Cummins. Mark Oni-Okeke, Managing Director, Cummins West Africa Limited, said the company is “delighted to work with Sahara Power to accelerate sustainable socio-economic development reliably and sustainably.”

HRM Oba Egbeyemi Latif Oladimeji, Ologba of Ogbaland, also blessed the project on behalf of the community. “You have the support of the Palace and good people of Ogba and its environs. We are eagerly looking forward to the commissioning of the Plant and positive impact on our community,” he said.

With demand for reliable power surging across Lagos, the 12MW Ogba IPP forms part of Sahara Power’s broader strategy to invest in targeted infrastructure that creates lasting benefits for businesses, communities, and the wider Nigerian economy. For Ogba, Acme and Wemco, the wait for consistent light may finally be coming to an end.

NOP NIGERIA