From Mark Chukwu, Umuahia
The Abia State Electricity Regulatory Authority (ASERA) has unveiled draft electricity regulations as part of efforts to strengthen the power sector and create a more efficient electricity market in Abia State.
The public consultation, held on Thursday at Sun Heaven Hotels in Umuahia, brought together electricity consumers, investors, industry stakeholders, and government officials to review and contribute ideas toward the proposed regulations.
Speaking during the event, the Abia State Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Ikechukwu Monday, said the administration of Alex Otti is committed to building a world-class electricity market that benefits every resident of the state.
According to him, the consultation process reflects the transparency and inclusiveness being adopted by the government in reforming the electricity sector.
He explained that electricity consumers remain critical stakeholders in the state’s power market and emphasized that the government is focused on delivering reliable electricity as a major driver of economic growth and development.
Engr. Monday also disclosed that Aba Power and the Geometric Group have deployed more than 120,000 electricity meters to households within their operational areas over the last six months. He added that plans are underway to extend similar metering initiatives across other local government areas in Abia State.
In his keynote address, Chairman of the Abia State Electricity Advisory Council, Sam Amadi, noted that the consultation was designed to improve electricity service delivery, build consumer confidence, and ensure fair and speedy resolution of customer complaints.
Also speaking, Chairman of ASERA, Emeka Onyegbule, said the consultation would help the authority develop workable regulations capable of supporting the objectives of the Abia State Government in the electricity sector.
He stressed that public participation is necessary for the success of the regulations, adding that stakeholder engagement would help create policies that are practical, transparent, investor-friendly, and beneficial to consumers.
Mr. Onyegbule explained that the reforms are backed by the Electricity Act 2023 and the Abia State Electricity Law 2025, both of which established the legal framework for sub-national electricity regulation and market development in the state.
According to him, ASERA is determined to build a power sector that attracts investors, supports economic growth, and improves electricity supply across Abia State.
Contributing at the event, Lead Consultant on Power at the Nigerian Governors Forum, Odion Omonfoman, described the establishment of ASERA as a major milestone for the Abia electricity market.
He stated that the long-term success of electricity regulations depends on transparency, public scrutiny, and consumer protection. He further commended the Abia State Government and ASERA for implementing the provisions of the Electricity Act in an open and inclusive manner.
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The consultation is expected to produce a comprehensive regulatory framework that will guide electricity operators, service providers, investors, and consumers across the state.
