Deji Adeleke’s 1,250MW Power Plant Nears Completion, Set To Boost Nigeria’s Energy Sector.
Billionaire businessman and Pro-Chancellor of Adeleke University, Dr Deji Adeleke, has announced the completion of his ambitious 1,250-megawatt power plant in Ajebamidele, Ondo State. Speaking at the 11th undergraduate and 7th postgraduate convocation ceremonies of Adeleke University in Ede, Osun State, on 20 July 2025, Adeleke revealed that the £1.6 billion project is now awaiting connection to the national gas grid to commence operations. Once operational, the plant is expected to generate approximately 15% of Nigeria’s electricity, providing a significant boost to the nation’s power supply.
The power plant, described as one of the largest privately-owned facilities of its kind in Nigeria, is poised to create over 2,000 jobs for engineers and associated workers, offering a substantial economic uplift for the local community and beyond. Adeleke highlighted the project’s potential to drive development, noting that it had already employed over 1,000 people during construction, with hundreds from the surrounding Ajebamidele village. However, the project has faced challenges, including a significant setback in 2023 when looters stole turbine components worth £4 million, causing a year-long delay.
Adeleke, the founder of Pacific Holdings Limited, emphasised the importance of partnerships in overcoming obstacles, crediting General Electric for supplying critical turbines and his faith for navigating bureaucratic hurdles. He recounted how a government official had attempted to block the project, but timely intervention from the Ministry of Power secured the necessary approvals. The businessman also expressed frustration with Nigeria’s electoral processes, arguing that credible elections are essential to attracting foreign investment and creating jobs.
The completion of the Ajebamidele power plant marks a significant milestone in addressing Nigeria’s chronic electricity shortages, with the national grid currently generating around 5,000MW. Social media reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with many Nigerians praising Adeleke for his investment in critical infrastructure rather than personal extravagance. Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, Deji’s brother, also commended the project, describing it as a testament to perseverance and a source of inspiration.
As the plant awaits gas grid connection, anticipation is building for its commissioning, expected by January 2026. The project not only promises to alleviate power shortages but also sets a precedent for private sector involvement in Nigeria’s energy sector, offering hope for a more stable and prosperous future.
