In a bold move to revolutionize its power sector, the Edo State Government has enacted the Electricity Law 2024, positioning the state as a pioneer in sub-national energy reform in Nigeria.
The announcement was made during a one-day workshop focused on developing a policy framework for Edo’s electricity market, where stakeholders from across the energy sector convened to align on the new regulatory direction.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Water Resources and Energy, Dr. Washington Osa Osifo—represented by Permanent Secretary Mr. Joseph Nyamali—highlighted the significance of the Electricity Law 2024. According to him, Governor Monday Okpebholo is leading a transformative agenda that establishes a forward-thinking and inclusive regulatory framework.
A key outcome of this initiative is the formation of the Edo State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ESERC), which will oversee electricity licensing, tariff regulation, market development, and compliance enforcement.
“This new framework allows for an accountable and consumer-focused energy sector,” Nyamali noted.
Dr. Osifo emphasized the importance of collaboration between the state government and critical power stakeholders, calling for collective commitment to build effective policies that will improve electricity supply to homes and businesses.
Mr. Odion Omofoma, a representative of the ESERC, reiterated that the commission is fully empowered to regulate all aspects of electricity delivery in the state, including standards enforcement and market promotion.
“We are here to ensure sanity in the sector and full compliance with energy regulations,” Omofoma stated.
Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Edo State, Dr. Festus Alenkhe, raised concerns about widespread electricity theft, attributing it in part to delays in metering by distribution companies (Discos). He called for the prosecution of those engaged in illegal connections and energy theft.
“Delays in providing meters encourage theft and inefficiency. We need strict enforcement and transparency,” Alenkhe urged.
Representatives from the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), led by Mr. Michael Ogunleye, commended Governor Okpebholo for his proactive approach in addressing systemic challenges in the power sector. The TCN acknowledged Edo State’s reform efforts as a model for other states to follow.
With the passage of the Electricity Law 2024 and the creation of ESERC, Edo State has taken a significant step toward decentralized power governance. The state government’s commitment to regulatory innovation and stakeholder inclusion signals a new era for energy policy and service delivery in Nigeria.
