“BAT Nigeria Unveils 1.4MW Solar Panel System for Factory’s 20th Anniversary

Discover BAT Nigeria's groundbreaking 1.4MW grid-tied solar panel system unveiled during the factory's 20th-anniversary celebration. Learn how this innovation is shaping sustainable energy solutions in Nigeria.

by Vincent Godstime

Discover BAT Nigeria's groundbreaking 1.4MW grid-tied solar panel system unveiled during the factory's 20th-anniversary celebration. Learn how this innovation is shaping sustainable energy solutions in Nigeria.

British American Tobacco Nigeria’s factory in Ibadan recently celebrated its 20th anniversary since its establishment in 2003. As a part of the celebration, the company highlighted its remarkable achievements in self-sustaining power generation that have enabled it to operate smoothly throughout the years. The event took place on Tuesday at the company’s premises, where the management and employees reminisced about the company’s success.
The solar panel system was recently unveiled in the presence of several prominent personalities, including Engr. Sheyi Makinde, the executive governor of Oyo State, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of Nigeria, Mrs. Onikepo Akande, a two-time minister of industry, Chief Kola Jamodu, former Chairman of the Nigerian Breweries Plc, and Otunba Francis Meshioye, president of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), among others. The event was graced by a wide range of dignitaries and representatives from various industries.

British American Tobacco (BAT) Nigeria recently marked a milestone by commissioning its 14MW Solar Plant, an initiative aimed at reducing the company’s environmental footprint and transitioning to clean energy solutions. The commissioning event was graced by the managing director of BAT Nigeria, Mr. Yarub Al-Bahrani, who highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices in his welcome address. The Solar Plant is a testament to BAT Nigeria’s dedication to driving ‘A Better Tomorrow,’ the company’s corporate slogan, while ensuring safety and creating a sustainable future for generations to come.

During the commissioning of a 1.4-megawatt solar plant by British American Tobacco (BAT) Nigeria, the governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, commended the company for its contributions to the state’s development. The governor expressed his commitment to sustaining a conducive environment for BAT Nigeria and other companies to operate in the state. He also emphasized the state’s focus on energy sufficiency, noting that the state government now has an Energy Ministry to oversee this sector. The governor further expressed his willingness to collaborate with BAT Nigeria to improve the electricity supply in the state and to explore opportunities to utilize Nigerian gas in the state’s energy mix, given the proximity of the City Gate for gas supply to Ibadan.

Governor Makinde announced that the state of Oyo will commission its 11-megawatt power plant, which includes 10 megawatts of gas-driven power and 1 megawatt of solar-powered energy, within the next few weeks. Additionally, he stated that he will soon sign the bill that establishes the Oyo State Electricity Regulatory Commission. The Governor emphasised that if the constitution of the country is amended in certain aspects, states can perform optimally and reduce their dependence on Abuja. He also expressed his appreciation for BAT, acknowledging the company’s contributions to the development of Oyo state and congratulating them on their historic milestone in Nigeria.

Chief Kola Karim, Chairman of BAT Nigeria, emphasized the company’s significant contribution to Nigeria’s economic advancement, stating, “It’s an honour to lead BAT and celebrate our century-long presence in Nigeria. Over the past two decades, our Ibadan facility has epitomized excellence and innovation, fueling economic progress.” Managing Director Yarub Al-Bahrani reiterated BAT Nigeria’s commitment to sustaining its legacy of success and fostering economic growth in Oyo State and Nigeria. Notable figures accompanying the governor included Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, Secretary to the State Government, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, Chief of Staff to the Governor, and various government officials.

Source: Independent

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