Akwa Ibom sets committee to improve electricity access across state

The Akwa Ibom State Government has taken fresh steps to tackle long-standing electricity challenges by setting up a committee aimed at improving power access across the state. This follows discussions held at the Power Summit in September 2025 in Uyo.

Governor Umo Eno convened a joint meeting of the State Executive Council and chairmen of all 31 local government areas to review ongoing power sector reforms and outline practical steps toward establishing electricity marketing and state ownership of the sector.

The meeting, held at Government House, Uyo, focused on strategies to ensure stable and reliable power supply for residents and businesses. As part of the initiative, a committee comprising council members and local government chairmen was inaugurated to harmonise proposals and develop a clear pathway for achieving steady electricity supply within a reasonable timeframe.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah, said the gathering assessed progress on reforms and examined timelines for the state to take full control of its electricity market. He added that technical experts also presented options on solar and other clean energy solutions.

“The committee will ensure that proposals from local governments are integrated into a practical plan that guarantees reliable electricity for all communities in Akwa Ibom,” Umanah said.

The Commissioner for Power, Iniobong Robinson, described the initiative as the beginning of a new phase for the state’s power sector, emphasising that recent reforms now empower states to generate, distribute, and manage electricity independently.

Uwemedimo Udo, Chairman of ALGON in the state, commended the governor’s move, describing inadequate electricity as a major barrier to economic growth, and pledged the continued support of local governments in implementing the reforms.

Eyo Ekpo, the state’s electricity sector reform consultant, noted that the 2023 Electricity Act allows states to operate their own electricity markets. He added that Akwa Ibom has strong potential for sustainable power supply due to its gas resources, power plants, transmission assets, and distribution infrastructure, but stressed that public cooperation will be essential to achieving reliable electricity for all.