Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has declared that the era of energy insecurity in the state is coming to an end, stressing that electricity is the single most important driver of the government’s Arise Agenda.
Speaking at the Akwa Ibom–Rural Electrification Agency, REA, Strategic Roundtable, Governor Eno said the state had transitioned from policy formulation to practical implementation of electricity projects designed to power growth and development across all sectors.
“We have moved from aspiration to legal and institutional foundation. Today, we pivot to implementation and delivery,” Governor Eno said.
He explained that within the last year, Akwa Ibom had delivered its Electricity Policy (2024), enacted the Electricity Law (2025), and established regulatory frameworks to drive the new power sector regime.
“Electricity is the key driver of our purpose to ensure that every Akwa Ibomite, in every corner of this State, can live with dignity and opportunity in the 21st century,” the governor declared.
Eno highlighted that electricity will fuel schools, hospitals, industries, farms, digital hubs, and women-led enterprises, while creating jobs across the State.
He urged Renewable Energy Service Companies, RESCOs, and private investors to move from ideas to concrete projects within 15–18 months.
He further assured that his administration will provide land, fast-track permits, ensure regulatory clarity, and facilitate financing to make projects bankable.
“With our mix of natural gas, small hydro, and renewable energy, we will deliver a sustainable energy future for our people,” he added.
The Deputy Governor, Dr. Akon Eyakenyi, described the roundtable as a “critical milestone” in the State’s journey to achieve universal electricity access, noting that off-grid deployment remains vital to reaching unserved and underserved communities.
Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Aliyu Baba, commended Governor Eno’s commitment to rural development, saying: “The ARISE Agenda aligns with the national electrification initiative. REA will continue to partner with states to attract private sector investors and ensure affordable electricity for rural dwellers.”
Also speaking, Commissioner for Power, Rt. Hon. Iniobong Robson Etebe, showcased opportunities in solar, hydro, and gas-to-power projects, assuring that Akwa Ibom had created a conducive environment for investors through clear policies and incentives.
The event also featured the presentation of the REA Community Mapping Tool and the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, between the State Government and the REA to strengthen collaboration on rural electrification.
