Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has officially signed the Abia State Electricity Bill into law, granting the state the authority to regulate its electricity market. The Governor made the announcement during an event at his country home in Umuehim Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Council Area, where he emphasized the significance of the new law in shaping the future of the state’s energy landscape.
With the signing of the 64-page bill, Governor Otti explained that the law provides the legal framework for the state to implement its electricity initiatives, including the establishment of the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Authority (ASERA). The new authority will oversee the regulation of power generation, distribution, and other related services within the state.
Governor Otti highlighted that the law would not only help to extend electricity services to the remaining eight local government areas of the state that are not covered by the Aba ring-fence arrangement but also support the government’s plans to provide consistent power to all areas. The Aba ring-fence, which currently includes nine council areas, is part of a power initiative with Geometric Power Limited.
“This document is one that will stand the test of time,” said Otti. “It will protect the investment of anyone interested in investing in Abia, and it speaks to renewable energy.” He added that the law would serve as the foundation for future power developments in the state, including plans to bring the eight uncovered council areas under the Umuahia ring-fence.
Governor Otti revealed that discussions are underway with Geometric Power, which operates within the Aba ring-fence, to explore the possibility of wheeling power from Aba to Umuahia and other parts of the Southeast without incurring additional costs. The infrastructure for such a plan, he explained, is already in place, with only the addition of a turbine needed to facilitate the energy transfer.
The Governor also expressed his appreciation for the Abia State House of Assembly for its swift and careful passage of the bill. He commended the Assembly for its diligence in considering the bill and emphasized the importance of a well-educated and forward-thinking legislature in driving the state’s progress. “Abia State is lucky to have the 8th Assembly,” he remarked, highlighting the Assembly’s ability to understand and support the Governor’s vision.
Presenting the bill to Governor Otti, the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, lauded the bill as a landmark achievement. He emphasized that it represents a significant step toward making Abia a hub for power generation and business investment, underscoring the commitment of the Assembly to support the Governor’s vision.
The Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Ikechukwu Monday, also expressed his satisfaction with the passage of the bill. He explained that the law aligns with the Electricity Act of 2023, which empowers states to establish regulatory bodies to manage their electricity markets. Monday noted that the bill had been carefully crafted to address Abia’s unique needs and circumstances, incorporating provisions for power generation, distribution, and protections against vandalism.
The Commissioner further highlighted that the establishment of the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Authority (ASERA) would be a crucial step in ensuring effective management and growth of the state’s power sector. He also thanked Governor Otti for his vision in realizing the goal of providing independent power for the state, which was a key part of his election manifesto.
The new law is expected to promote local participation and content in the state’s electricity sector, fostering a competitive and sustainable market that will benefit both residents and businesses. The Governor and other stakeholders expressed optimism that the law would transform the state’s power infrastructure, creating new opportunities for investment and improving the overall quality of life for the people of Abia.
