Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has signed the Abia State Mini Grid Regulation, creating a legal framework that formally opens the state’s electricity market to private investors, development partners, and institutions.
Governor Otti said the regulation was designed to extend access to millions of residents, particularly in underserved and unserved communities, while promoting alternative energy options for both domestic and commercial use.
“I have signed the Abia State Mini Grid Regulation, formalising a framework that opens our electricity market to competent investors and development partners,” Otti announced.
“The overarching objective of the framework is to promote the use and adoption of alternative energy options for both domestic and commercial activities.”
The governor explained that the regulation provides a clear structure for decentralised energy solutions, offering practical answers to technical and commercial questions from investors and consumers alike. “It defines the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders and establishes mechanisms for resolving disputes efficiently,” he added.
Otti credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for enabling sub-national governments to shape their energy future through the amended Electricity Act 2023, which moved electricity to the concurrent legislative list.
“By moving electricity to the concurrent legislative list, the Act empowers sub-national governments to shape their energy future. As a direct outcome, the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency, ASERA, was established and assumed regulatory oversight in line with the Act’s mandate,” he said.
According to him, this transition positions Abia State to take the lead in decentralised energy governance with clarity and autonomy.
The governor also praised his team and stakeholders for their role in finalising the regulation. “I extend my appreciation to the Honourable Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, and the entire team for partnering with the relevant stakeholders to get the exercise concluded in good time,” he stated.
He stressed that the framework would unlock significant opportunities for economic and social development.
“With this regulation, we are unlocking opportunities for small businesses, improving public services, and laying the foundation for inclusive growth and sustainable development across our communities,” Otti declared.
The Abia State Mini Grid Regulation is expected to attract investments, boost power supply reliability, and accelerate the state’s adoption of decentralised energy solutions in line with global clean energy trends.
