This recognition highlights GenCo’s unwavering commitment to operational excellence and resilience in the face of industry-wide challenges.

The award was presented at the Energy Times Awards held in Ikeja, where key stakeholders across the energy value chain gathered to celebrate excellence and innovation within the industry.

In a statement, Egbin Power expressed appreciation to the organisers for the honour, noting that recognition in Nigeria’s power industry is earned through consistent performance rather than visibility.

The company emphasised that despite persistent structural constraints within the sector, its responsibility remains clear in delivering reliable megawatts to the national grid.

“At Egbin Power, we have made a deliberate choice to be reliable, disciplined, and performance-driven. This recognition reflects the resilience of our people, the strength of our operations, and our unwavering commitment to powering Nigeria sustainably,” the company stated. It further highlighted that the award is rooted in measurable outcomes, while acknowledging that much work remains to be done in strengthening the sector.

The company also reiterated that sustainable power extends beyond generation, stressing the need for an efficient end-to-end electricity value chain where every megawatt generated translates into value delivered and revenue recovered.

Egbin Power affirmed its commitment to leading industry conversations and setting performance benchmarks through example.

Speaking on the recognition, the Chief Executive Officer of Egbin Power Plc, Mokhtar Bounour, dedicated the award to the company’s workforce.

“All the credit for this recognition goes to the team, whose dedication, discipline, and determination continue to translate into outstanding results,” he said.

He also acknowledged the Board’s unwavering support, noting that strong alignment between governance and management has been critical in consistently raising performance standards.

Bounour further highlighted the role of Sahara Group in driving innovation and sustainability across the business.

According to him, the organisation remains focused on creating value for its stakeholders while contributing meaningfully to national development.

“We are not just generating power, we are powering the future. Technology will remain at the heart of this transformation, while sustainability and affordability are not ambitions, they are our standard,” he added.

Sahara Group Foundation, the CSR arm of Sahara Group (Egbin Power’s parent company), was also named the Social Impact Company of the Year for its significant contributions to sustainable development and socio-economic progress in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and across Africa.

Energy Times, in its citation, commended Egbin Power for its notable improvements in average hourly power generation in 2025, achieved despite industry-wide challenges.

The organisers noted that the company sustained commendable output through enhanced operational efficiency, proactive asset management, and a firm commitment to national grid stability, further cementing its strategic importance in Nigeria’s power sector.

The initiative, part of the company’s Personal Corporate Social Responsibility (PCSR) efforts, is designed to improve employability, encourage entrepreneurship and expand access to opportunities in the digital economy.

Mokhtar Bounour, the chief executive officer of Egbin Power Plc, said the programme reflected the company’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development, adding that its responsibilities extend beyond electricity generation to empowering people in surrounding communities.

“In today’s digital age, technology is no longer optional but a critical driver of economic inclusion and growth,” Bounour said, noting that deliberate interventions were needed to bridge digital gaps and prevent uneven development.

He explained that when communities are excluded from the digital economy, development becomes uneven and unsustainable, reinforcing the need for deliberate interventions that bridge digital gaps.

“The Empowerment Programme is designed to address this gap by providing young people in Egbin, Ijede and Ipakan with access to practical and in-demand digital skills that can improve employability, foster entrepreneurship, and create new economic opportunities within their communities, he noted.

The first cohort brings together beneficiaries from the three communities for structured training in ICT fundamentals, graphic design, full-stack web development, digital marketing, cybersecurity and data analytics.

The programme combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning.

Participants were selected through a screening process that assessed curiosity, determination and willingness to learn, the company said.

Beyond technical training, the programme also includes workplace skills such as ethics, problem-solving, collaboration, professionalism and digital responsibility.

Bounour urged beneficiaries to act as ambassadors of the initiative and demonstrate the values of integrity, discipline and service, saying their progress would serve as evidence that strategic corporate responsibility can deliver measurable impact.

He encouraged participants to recognise their broader responsibility to their communities, urging them to learn with character, pay their knowledge forward, mentor others, and use their skills to solve real local problems.

He noted that the true legacy of the programme will be the ripple effects it creates through shared success and communal growth.

The launch of the Tech Empowerment Programme underscores Egbin Power Plc’s continued commitment to sustainable community development, trust-building, and long-term value creation.

The company reaffirmed its dedication to investing strategically in people, strengthening host communities, and contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s digital and economic future.

One of such initiatives is the company-sponsored annual football tournament for host communities, which has continued to serve as a unifying platform for youth development, positive engagement, and shared identity among neighbouring communities.

Now in its fourth edition, the programme has evolved into a signature programme that brings together young people from neighbouring communities, encouraging positive interaction, mutual respect, and a shared sense of purpose.

Over the years, it has consistently demonstrated the GenCo’s belief that sustainable development thrives where communities are united and actively engaged.

The final of the tournament, held at the Egbin Power sports field, saw Alanu-Omo FC edge Dragon Ipakan FC with a 1–0 victory in a closely contested encounter, capping weeks of spirited participation marked by discipline, camaraderie, and exemplary sportsmanship.

Speaking on the significance of the programme, Felix Ofulue, head of Corporate Communications & Branding at Egbin Power, described the initiative as a strategic investment in people and communities.

“At Egbin Power, we are deeply passionate about initiatives that bring people together and create lasting value. This programme has grown into a platform for nurturing talent, engaging young people constructively, and strengthening bonds across communities. Beyond recreation, it instils critical life skills such as teamwork, leadership, discipline, and resilience, qualities that are essential for personal growth and societal progress,” Ofulue said.

He added that the objective is to evolve the initiative into a unifying force that strengthens relationships across communities while reinforcing Egbin Power’s brand as a responsible and people-centred organisation.

Captain of the winning team, Alanu-Omo FC, Samad Ojikutu, expressed appreciation to Egbin Power for its sustained commitment to youth empowerment.

“We commend Egbin Power for consistently creating opportunities for young people in the host communities. This is a programme we always look forward to. Winning is exciting, but what matters most is the unity we experience as a team and as a community. It reminds us that we can achieve so much more when we work together,” he said.

From the opening fixtures to the final match, the programme featured 16 teams drawn from the host communities, with participants displaying not only skill and competitiveness but also camaraderie and respect for fair play, reinforcing the programme’s positive social impact over the years.

At the end of the competition, Alanu-Omo FC emerged champions and received a cash prize of ₦1million, while the runners-up and third-place teams received ₦700,000 and ₦500,000 respectively.

The event also attracted notable stakeholders, who commended Egbin Power for creating a credible platform that promotes youth development.

Community leader and retired Grade 1 referee, Prince Samson Ekundayo, described the initiative as impactful and timely.

“Programmes like this are critical for community development. They provide young people with opportunities to showcase their talents, while also learning the values of cooperation, discipline, and respect,” he noted.

Egbin Power reiterated that initiatives of this nature remain central to its commitment to inclusion, empowerment, and sustainable community relations, noting that deliberate investments in youth and social cohesion are essential for building trust, strengthening brand affinity, and driving long-term shared value.

The 2025 programme, which was the eighth edition, delivered essential healthcare services to the residents in Egbin, Ipakan, and Ijede communities, where the people turned out in large numbers to participate in the programme, acknowledging the positive impact the outreach has made on their lives.

Speaking on the initiative, Felix Ofulue, head of Corporate Communications & Branding, noted that the programme aims to bridge the gap between quality healthcare and the people, particularly those in the host communities.

“At Egbin Power, we believe that good health is essential to life. By providing access to healthcare, we are improving the productivity of individuals and prioritising the sustainability of society. As we strive to deepen access to quality healthcare in our communities, Egbin Power Plc is proud to align our efforts with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all. Every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive,” Ofulue remarked.

The community stakeholders applauded the GenCo for its consistent efforts in providing access to quality healthcare through the initiative.

High Chief Aliu Musediq, the Regent of Ijede, praised Egbin Power’s unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of people in the community.

He said:

“This outreach demonstrates the company’s dedication to improving our health and lives. The large turnout reflects our people’s need for quality healthcare, and we are grateful for this opportunity to receive free medical services.”

High Chief Mustapha Lasisi, the Baale of Ipakan, reflected on the long-term benefits of such initiatives. “Over the years, Egbin Power has been providing succour to our communities. Their efforts remind us of the importance of health; without it, we cannot thrive.”

He emphasised the need for continued support from Egbin Power in addressing health challenges in the communities.

Many residents echoed his sentiments, sharing personal stories of how the outreach has transformed their lives.

Mrs. Abosede Nofiu, a retired civil servant, expressed her gratitude, saying,

“Egbin Power has shown us that they care. The medical care provided has greatly benefited me and many others in our community. We feel healthier and more informed about our health.”

Organised in collaboration with Ceccy Health, the programme offered a comprehensive range of medical services, including eye care, diabetes management, malaria treatment, dental check-ups, arthritis care, and blood pressure monitoring.

After thorough medical examinations, beneficiaries received free high-quality medications, medicated glasses, glucometers, blood pressure monitoring machines, and wellness kits.

Mrs. Ife Honfo, a local hairdresser, shared her experience:

“The doctors took their time to examine me and explained everything thoroughly. They also provided medications free of charge. I feel empowered to take better care of my health and now understand how to maintain a healthy lifestyle.”

Many beneficiaries not only received medications but also gained valuable knowledge about their health. Smiles and expressions of gratitude filled the air as residents returned home, hopeful.

Egbin Power Plc remains committed to enhancing the quality of life and advancing development in the host communities.

This medical outreach is one of the many transformative initiatives carried out each year by the GenCo to uplift the communities and drive sustainable growth.

The milestone ceremony, held at the Egbin Power Clubhouse, brought together community leaders, parents, teachers, the management team of Egbin Power and beneficiaries to recognise and reward academic excellence across its host communities.

Speaking at the event, Mokhtar Bounour, the chief executive officer of Egbin Power Plc, noted that the scholarship scheme, which began a decade ago, has transformed the lives of children in host communities by easing the financial burden on parents while providing opportunities for students to pursue quality education.

“This 10th edition of the Egbin Power Scholarship reaffirms our decade-long commitment to education and community development. By investing in these young scholars, we are not only empowering their future but also strengthening the foundation for sustainable growth in our host communities and Nigeria at large,” he said.

According to Bounour, the Scholarship has grown beyond just being a CSR initiative, into a true symbol of Egbin Power’s deep bond with its host communities.

Marking the 10th edition reinforces the shared belief that empowering children through education is the strongest investment in their future and in the collective progress of the community.

“For ten years, the Egbin Power Scholarship has stood as a pillar of our CSR commitment to education and empowerment. We are proud of the impact it has made, and this 10th edition renews our pledge to continue driving initiatives that uplift lives and create lasting value for society”, he noted.

The Egbin Power Scholarship Programme, introduced in 2015, has consistently rewarded pupils and students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance.

Beyond financial support, the program includes mentorship and a scholarship bootcamp designed to equip beneficiaries with life skills, discipline, and confidence to excel in their educational journey.

A parent of one of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Ebuzome Ekene, expressed gratitude to the GenCo for sustaining the initiative over the years.

“This scholarship has lifted a huge burden off many families. Beyond the financial relief, it gives our children the confidence to aim higher, knowing that their community and Egbin stand solidly behind them,” she said.

Similarly, Kareem Opeyemi, a student beneficiary, expressed appreciation to Egbin Power Plc for providing the scholarship to students. According to him, the scholarship was a dream come true.

He said:

“This award motivates me to study harder, focus on improving myself and sustaining the scholarship so as to become a future leader who will make my community proud.”

This year, the bootcamp concluded with the final selection of beneficiaries for the 10th edition, reflecting Egbin Power’s sustained efforts to inspire and nurture the next generation of leaders. The programme continues to enjoy strong participation and support from parents, teachers, and community leaders who serve as custodians of the children’s progress.

Egbin Power has remained at the forefront of corporate social responsibility initiatives in education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and community infrastructure. Through these initiatives, the company has demonstrated that its role goes beyond power generation to include empowering people and uplifting communities.

The scholarship award ceremony was not only a celebration of academic achievement but also a reaffirmation of Egbin Power’s enduring partnership with its host communities.

The company pledged to continue investing in impactful programmes that align with its vision of building a brighter and more sustainable future.

Named the ‘Bright Gyimah Centre for Innovation,’ this state-of-the-art facility is located within the Powerfields Group of Schools in Ikorodu, owned by Egbin Power (a member of the Sahara Group).

The centre offers students the opportunity to develop skills in Information Technology (IT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and explore their creativity in arts, music, culinary, and hospitality fields.

Mr. Felix Ofulue, head of Corporate Communications & Branding at Egbin Power Plc, stated that the initiative aims to create a dynamic learning environment that fosters creativity and innovation.

“The facility will open doors to exciting career opportunities for learners, serving as a beacon of hope for comprehensive, quality education and has the potential to revolutionize education in our society,” he said.

Ofulue emphasized the company’s commitment to nurturing future leaders who will drive progress and prosperity in Nigeria.

“This initiative demonstrates our dedication to advancing education and highlights our readiness to continuously groom future leaders. The skills acquired here will enable learners to become architects of their success, supporting socio-economic growth,” he added.

Speaking on behalf of the Governing Council, Powerfields Group of Schools, Ejiro Gray, the director of Governance and Sustainability, Sahara Group, highlighted the importance of equipping students with skills for the future.

She said:

“At Sahara Group, sustainability extends beyond organizational boundaries to include positive societal impact. We aim to position students to compete globally, providing them with the right platform to learn and apply their skills.” 

Gray further noted that the Innovation Centre is a transformative initiative offering in-demand 21st-century skills, empowering students to cultivate their entrepreneurial spirit and become innovators.

Ngozi Emezue, the administrator of Powerfields group of Schools, noted that the facility will provide experiential learning, boost students’ confidence, and enable them to translate theoretical knowledge into practical applications.

“This Centre represents a significant investment in the future, playing a key role in nurturing the next generation of leaders and innovators. The Governing Council and the Management are excited to witness the impact of the innovation hub on students, teachers and the community around us”, she said.

“It will also enhance the continuous professional development of the teachers. It has added to our value proposition, giving us a competitive advantage, because not so many schools have such facilities. Therefore, we want to commend everyone who has made this possible,” Emezue noted.

Chairman of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), Matthew Amadi applauded the Governing Council for continuously elevating the standard and making it a one-stop learning institution that sets itself apart among others.

“The establishment of this Centre for Innovation further positions Powerfields School as an exemplary learning institution where students receive quality education, practical skills and also expand their horizon beyond the textbook, thereby giving them an edge and making them outstandingly creative and competitive globally.

Chairman of the Governing Council, Powerfields Group of Schools, Tope Sonubi; and members including Olubunmi Olukoju; Tolulope Orojo; Muhtar Bakare and Akodu Kamardeen; were among those who graced the commissioning.

In her remarks, Caroline Uzoigwe, Bright Gyimah’s daughter commended the Board and Management of Egbin Power for naming the innovation centre after her late father, a former General Manager of the Plant.

She said:

“Education has gone beyond just the classrooms and textbooks. it involves being able to practicalize and implement knowledge. That is why this Centre for Innovation is significant. It is laudable and meaningful. The management deserves commendation for this initiative because it shows commitment to the growth and development of the school, the students and the education sector.” 

The innovation hub has an Artificial Intelligence Laboratory for students to learn, create and deploy applications.

The well-equipped Cooking Lab and Hospitality Room will enable the students to acquire professional training and skills in catering and hospitality. Other facilities at the centre are the Music Lab, IT Lab, Art Studio, Auditorium, etc.

Egbin Power has consistently demonstrated its commitment to education through initiatives such as its yearly scholarship programme for students from public primary and secondary schools, donation of furniture, educational materials and solar-powered boreholes to schools in the host communities and celebrating special occasions with the students.

This initiative aligns with the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. By providing access to quality education and empowering future generations, Egbin Power contributes to building a more sustainable and prosperous future.

The programmes offered at the Centre for Innovation are tailored to meet the current demands of the education landscape, ensuring that students are well-prepared to excel academically and globally.