According to news report from News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) commissioned a new business hub on Thursday in Offa, the headquarters of Offa Local Government Area (LGA) of Kwara State.

Speaking at the event, the company's acting Managing Director, Francis Agoha, led the management team and explained that the commissioning of the new hub is not merely about expanding the company's physical presence.

“It is all about deepening our commitment to the communities.

“It embodies IBEDC's dedication to driving economic growth, enhancing service delivery and bringing service to the people,” he said.

He said the business hub was strategically positioned to facilitate economic development in Offa and its environs by bringing their operations closer to the people.

“We are not only increasing access to reliable electricity, but also fostering an environment where the overall quality of lives of the residents is improved and business can flourish.

“A reliable power supply is essential for the prosperity of any community. We are prioritising delivery of energy to our customers.

“IBEDC is determined to adapt to industry trends, while upholding its core values and vision,” he said.

Mr Agoha assured that IBEDC remained resolute in its commitment to staying in business and ensuring financial sustainability.

He appealed to customers and the people of Offa in general to protect the infrastructure within the community and not just leave everything for IBEDC.

Mr Agora also urged customers to cooperate and support lBEDC by paying their bills promptly, appealing to the public to join hands in the journey of progress and not being careless.

“Let us work together to ensure that the Offa business hub becomes a model of excellence, reliability and innovation.

“We can power the future, drive economic growth and build a more prosperous and sustainable community,” the acting managing director said.

On his part, the president of Offa Development Union (ODU), Alhaji Azeez Salako, said the commissioning marked a significant milestone in the community' s journey towards a brighter and prosperous future.

Mr Salako, who was represented by the ODU national Vice-President, Tajudeen Bello, commended IBEDC for the effort and promised to justify the confidence reposed in the community.

He said the commissioning was a fulfilment of ODU's promise to invest in critical infrastructure and create an enabling environment for business growth and development.

“We are committed to harnessing the full potential of our community's resources to drive economic transformation and improve the standard for all.

“As we commission this hub, we are not only unlocking the potential of our energy sector but also paving the way for a brighter future,” Mr Salako said.

He also urged members of the community to carry out their civic responsibility by paying their monthly bills as at when due.

The Olofa of Offa, Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi, the Esuwoye 11, however commended the IBEDC team for the business hub and assured of a peaceful working relationship with them.

The Olofa, who was represented by the Ojomu of Offa, Joseph Akinola, promised that IBEDC would never regret commissioning a business hub in Offa.

He also assured that the people of Offa and Ibolo communities love to follow rules and would play according to the rules and regulations.

The chairman, House committee on energy, Kwara House of Assembly, Hon. Seun Ogunniyi, also assured that the assembly would give the right legislative support for electricity to thrive in the state.

Mr Ogunniyi described the business hub as a major catalyst for economic growth and development in Offa.

He, however, advised members of the public to use electricity responsibly and pay for their consumption.

The lawmaker also called on members of the public to protect electricity assets such as cables and transformers in and around their communities.

The Onijagbo of Ijagbo, Sharafadeen Buhari, and the Asiwaju of Offa, Taju Owoyemi, were among the dignitaries present at the occasion.