Akwa Ibom concludes Electricity Summit, unveils power sector reforms
The Akwa Ibom State Government has concluded its two-day Electricity Summit with the announcement of major reforms aimed at transforming the state’s electricity landscape. Held at Four Points by Sheraton, Ikot Ekpene, the summit ended with Governor Umo Eno unveiling plans to establish the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Regulatory Commission (AKSERC) and the Akwa Ibom State Electrification Agency (AISEA).
Governor Eno stated that AKSERC will oversee tariff regulation, licensing, and sector oversight, while AISEA will focus on expanding electricity access to towns, villages, and underserved communities. He added that the boards of both agencies will be constituted within one month, with recruitment carried out transparently through the state’s ARISE Employment Portal.
The Governor emphasized the professional and non-political nature of the recruitment process, calling on technically qualified Akwa Ibomites to apply. He assured that only individuals with the requisite expertise will be engaged to drive the reforms.
As part of the reform roadmap, Governor Eno announced plans to rehabilitate and commercialize Ibom Power Company, establish the Akwa Ibom Electricity Distribution Company, and upgrade the state’s distribution infrastructure. He also revealed that both the generation and distribution companies will be licensed under the Akwa Ibom Electricity Market, with the state retaining majority shares.
The Governor also disclosed plans to roll out a Consumer Bill of Rights, ensuring fairness, accountability, and protection against vandalism and theft. He further pledged that at least 20% of the state’s future electricity supply would come from renewable energy sources, as part of a transition to clean energy.
“These are not aspirational promises; they are concrete and time-bound objectives to be achieved within the next 24 months or earlier,” he added.
Highlighting the importance of partnerships, he called for collaboration with the private sector, federal authorities, development institutions, and the citizens, stating that electricity should no longer be a barrier to growth. He expressed confidence that by 2034, every household in Akwa Ibom will have access to quality electricity.
The Governor thanked participants and dignitaries, including representatives from Enugu, Abia, Cross River, and Bayelsa States, as well as federal officials and energy experts. He specially commended Ms. Ekemini Umoh, an Akwa Ibom native based in Europe, for her contributions, and received the official roadmap from Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi and Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah.
