Adedeji Adeleke, father of Nigerian music star Davido, has opened up about a serious challenge he faced while trying to build a $2 billion power plant in Nigeria.
Speaking at a church conference in Maryland, USA, Adeleke shared how a government official attempted to block his ambitious project by denying him an essential environmental permit.
The businessman highlighted the struggle he experienced in dealing with government red tape.
“One official boldly told me that my project would never see the light of day,” he said, recalling the frustrating encounter.
Adeleke has been a significant player in Nigeria’s electricity sector.
He owns a power plant that currently generates about 15% of Nigeria’s electricity needs.
Now, he is working on a massive new facility with a capacity of 1,250 megawatts, which he aims to complete by January 2025.
Nigeria’s electricity sector has long been plagued by issues, including inadequate supply and unreliable infrastructure.
These challenges make Adeleke’s new power plant crucial for the country’s energy future.
Yet, despite the pressing need for reliable electricity, he faced significant obstacles in obtaining the necessary permits.
“The denial of my environmental permit was a major setback,” he explained.
He expressed concern over how such bureaucratic hurdles can stifle progress and discourage investors in Nigeria.
Adeleke described how he felt about the official’s dismissal of his project.
“It was as if he thought he was God,” he said.
In the face of such negativity, he turned to prayer.
“I prayed to God because whatever the official said was not final,” he recalled.
His faith was tested, especially since his Chinese partners were anxious about the future of the project.
“Investments were already made, and we were deep into the design phase,” he said.
Yet, just when he was beginning to lose hope, he received an unexpected call from the Ministry of Power.
“They asked me to come to the minister’s office,” he said.
When he arrived, he was handed the long-awaited permit.
“It was a surprise to me,” he added, explaining that he later learned the official who had blocked his permit had fallen ill and was flown to Germany for treatment.
Adeleke’s experience was met with laughter and applause from the congregation.
He reflected on how prayer had helped him in difficult times.
“I don’t know if it has worked for you, but it has always worked for me,” he said.
His remark about the efficacy of prayers said on the Sabbath made the audience chuckle.
Despite the challenges he faced, Adeleke remains focused on his goals.
“I have heard rumors about church leaders and elders doing all kinds of things, but it has not affected me,” he noted.
His strong faith in God keeps him grounded and focused on what truly matters.
The successful completion of Adeleke’s new power plant could significantly impact Nigeria’s energy landscape.
With the power sector needing revitalization, projects like his offer hope for improved electricity supply.
Adeleke’s journey serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in Nigeria, especially in sectors that require heavy investment and regulatory approval.
As he moves forward with the project, he remains determined to overcome any hurdles.
“I will not let anyone’s negativity stop me,” he declared, showing his commitment to making a difference in Nigeria’s power sector.
