Azura Power West Africa Limited (APWAL) has reiterated its commitment to the socio-economic development of its host communities, with the inauguration of two pivotal projects in Orior-Osemwende, Benin City, Edo State.
The reconstructed Orior Primary Health Centre and the 1.1km Orior Community Road, were official inagurates by Governor Monday Okpebholo on Wednesday.
According to the company, the two projects, culminating in a total cost of N1.66 billion, aimed to enhance healthcare infrastructure by providing a modern and improved primary healthcare facility for the residents of its host communities in Orior-Osemwende, Ihovbor and Idunmwowina and adjoining communities, as well as improve community connectivity by delivering vital road infrastructure to facilitate movement, access, and overall quality of life.
The two key projects executed through the “Power to Change” (PTC) initiative, the company’s strategic Corporate and Social Responsibility (CSR) vehicle to address critical needs within the host community.
Monday Okpebholo, Edo State Governor, while performing the formal inauguration of the projects, emphasised the benefits of collaboration between the Government and the private sector toward accelerating the accomplishment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The governor stated that Azura Power’s sustained commitment to making a real difference in the lives of the residents of Orior-Osemwende community was exemplary and worthy of emulation for other businesses.
“For us at Azura Power West Africa Limited, the reconstructed Orior Primary Health Centre and the 1.1km Orior Community Road in Orior-Osemwende community not only exemplify APWAL’s continued dedication to our host communities but also highlight the tangible impact of the ‘Power to Change’ programme in fostering sustainable development and empowering lives at the grassroots level,’’ Edu Okeke, managing director, Azura Power West Africa Limited, said in his welcome address.
According to him, the initiative is a positive example of how corporate entities can meaningfully contribute to the development of their host communities, by showcasing a model of responsible corporate citizenship.
Okeke stated that the reconstructed primary health centre would directly improve healthcare access and outcomes for the residents of Orior-Osemwende.
According to him, the newly built community road will enhance connectivity, ease of movement, and overall quality of life for the community members, potentially impacting economic activities and social interactions.
“If we take our modest contribution to community development as examples of incentives to attract more investors, the impact will be more when it is done on a large scale,’’ Okeke stated.
He also assured the State of Azura Power’s long-term commitment to the socio-economic advancement of its host communities, especially in Edo State.
“We will position the ‘Power to Change’ programme as a testament to this long-term vision of creating positive and lasting change, demonstrating that APWAL is a responsible and invested partner in the community’s progress”, Okeke said.
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