The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has initiated a collaboration with the University of Ibadan (UI) as part of its efforts to make the university a model in 24-hour power supply and ensure stable electricity supply to Nigerians in its operational area.

Managing Director of IBEDC, Mr. Fortunato Leynes, announced the initiative during a courtesy call on UI Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Adewole.

The director said: “As an organisation that is committed to the fundamental principles of building a world-class utility institution, strategic partnership comes naturally. In this quest, we have decided to partner with this great institution in two broad areas. The first being talent sourcing and talent development, and the second is joining hands with you in making the right and necessary investment, which would make your institution the first island in our franchise area that would be guaranteed a 24-hour power supply.”

He added that “to transform the industry we are operating in today, human capital would play a pivotal role. Thus, we must source for the right, qualified, motivated and performance-driven people to join us.”

In his response, Prof. Adewole said that the university was aiming at becoming a demonstration site in 24 hours power supply and IBEDC was the technical partner that could make it a reality via a partnership not only in power supply, but also in human capital development for the company and internship of students of the institution with IBEDC.

Deputy Managing Director of IBEDC, Mr. John Darlington, in his contribution, reiterated the commitment of the company to changing the lives of Nigerians positively by persistently deploying human and capital resources of IBEDC to ensure adequate and stable power supply for

businesses, leisure and industrial use.

He said: “Though it inherited dilapidated infrastructure, IBEDC would make a great impact and spectacular difference in the business of power distribution.

“Therefore, it is imperative we join hands with this foremost institution which happens to be located within our franchise area. As a show of our commitment to our determination in

making power available to all our customers 24/7, we have decided to work with you in making your great institution as a pilot programme.”

•Photo shows, from left, IBEDC Deputy Managing Director, Mr. John Darlington; Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof. Isaac Adewole; Managing Director, IBEDC, Engineer Fortunato Leynes; and UI Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Emilolorun Aiyelari.

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