The Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has lamented several billions of Naira “wasted” in solar energy in the state by his predecessors.
He said many of the solar energy technology had become a nuisance value to the people.
Speaking while receiving a delegation of China Electronics Technology Group Corporation brought by Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) in his office, Fayose said it was good to learn from the past in order to prepare for the future.
He said, “I would like to be totally convinced because I am accountable to my people. They are the people that will benefit from the programme on the long run. I don’t want to be part of the people that will sell this good product and it would not be on the shelve.
“For a very long time, I don’t believe in solar energy because all my predecessors have invested the resources of this state in solar technology which are now constituting nuisance in this town.
“They put billions into it. For you to convince me, come and put a model in this town. Let us proof to our people so that when another company comes here, they will believe.”
The Director of CETC, Mr. Richard Zhang, had requested for a parcel of land to build a research industrial park for the solar energy technology in the state and also asked for collaboration.
Babalola, who is the proprietor of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, said he brought the company to the government because of its profit to the state, adding that his institution had concluded discussions on a $4.58 million agreement with the company.
He lamented that power had been a major problem hampering development in the state and Nigeria as a whole.
Fayose said his probe of the Chinese investor was to ensure the people get the best from the investment, if agreed to.
“I want to visit where you have done it. I want evidence. You must convince us that it is not a fluke.
“We have not had a good experience about solar technology. We want to be assured. You have to convince us beyond reasonable doubt. My government will sponsor a representative of the state and that of ABUAD to visit one or two places where they are using the technology.
“Our land is gold. It is a great asset to us. We don’t want to give our land to a non-profitable venture,” he added. Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
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Well said Mr governor although solar energy if well implemented is a good source of energy but as you've said and I concur they should verify where this had been done before. Chinese pple(pardon) always likes playing a fast one, they've ripped us him in so many ways through their companies. Govnr.,this time, ur on d right track
ReplyDeleteMark.