Gov. Soludo inaugurates electricity commission to boost power supply

Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra on Thursday inaugurated a five-member Anambra State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ASERC), to enhance power supply management across the state.

Soludo said, during the inauguration at the Government House, Awka, that the aim was to strengthen its electricity infrastructure and improve service delivery.

He named Prof. Frank Okafor as Chairman and Chief Executive Commissioner of the commission. Other members are Mr Geoffrey Nwokoye, Dr Nnaemeka Ewelukwa, Mr Nosike Emmanuel and Mr Chijioke Obi.

According to him, the appointees  represent the best talent available.

“They will oversee the operations of the commission, ensuring that it effectively regulates electricity supply to meet the demands of Anambra’s growing population and economy.

“I encourage you to facilitate the transition into the new electricity market while operating within the legal framework,” he said.

The governor commended the State House of Assembly for the prompt passage of the enabling law that defined the framework and operational guidelines of the commission.

The Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Mr Julius Chukwuemeka, said that the 2023 Nigeria Electricity Act was currently being domesticated for the state.

Chukwuemeka noted that over the years, the state had deliberately laid a solid foundation for the initiative.

“The bill was drafted and passed, providing legal framework for the establishment of the commission and defining its responsibilities in regulating the state’s electricity sector,” he said.

Responding, Okafor, Chairman of the Commission assured that the expectations of the people of Anambra would be respected and taken seriously.

He emphasised that while the tasks ahead were significant, they were achievable.

Okafor acknowledged that Anambra had suffered setbacks in the past but assured that those gaps would now be addressed.

“I’m confident that both the quantity and quality of power supply in the state will improve.

“The Commission will also focus on ensuring energy accountability and revenue assurance,” he said.