Stakeholders gather in Umuahia as three firms receive regulatory approval to drive new era of power stability and economic growth.

The Abia State Electricity Regulatory Authority (ASERA) on Friday marked a major milestone in the state’s power sector reform by issuing Interim Distribution and Generation Licences to three electricity firms, signalling the full transition to an independently regulated intrastate electricity market.

The licences were granted to New Era Electricity Distribution Limited, APL Electric Company Limited, and Geometric Power Aba Limited, in accordance with Sections 16, 17, 44 and 64 of the Abia State Electricity Law, 2025.

The ceremony, held at the Ministry of Agriculture premises in Umuahia, follows the conclusion of the transition period on December 24, 2025, when ASERA formally assumed full regulatory oversight of intrastate electricity operations. The interim licences, expected to last about six months, will enable the firms to commence operations under ASERA’s regulatory framework pending the issuance of full licences.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ASERA, Mr. Emeka Onyegbule, described the development as a decisive step from policy formulation to full implementation.

He emphasized that electricity remains central to economic growth, industrial expansion, and the overall welfare of citizens, noting that Abia State is deliberately building a structured and disciplined power sector capable of delivering reliable service at scale.

“This is not ceremonial, it is decisive. We are no longer preparing for reform, we are executing it,” Onyegbule declared.

He stressed that the licences are not merely instruments of authority but of responsibility, urging operators to maintain transparency, discipline, and responsiveness to consumers. He warned that strict regulatory consequences would apply to any operator that fails to meet expectations.

“The era of regulatory ambiguity is behind us. Compliance is not optional,” he added.

Onyegbule also revealed that the state government is in advanced negotiations to conclude the takeover of the Umuahia ring-fenced area from the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), a process expected to be finalised before the end of the second quarter.

In a goodwill message, the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, represented by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Energy, Engr. Kachy Etolue, described the issuance of the licences as a significant milestone in the state’s electricity reform journey.

He noted that the move reflects the government’s commitment to translating policy into practical outcomes that will drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for Abia citizens.

“With the enactment of the Abia State Electricity Law, 2025, and the conclusion of the transition period, Abia has now assumed full responsibility for regulating its electricity market,” he stated.

Also speaking, ASERA’s Executive Director, Legal and Regulatory, Barrister Iguwo Ukwu, outlined strict compliance requirements, stressing that operators must adhere to all regulatory, operational, and technical standards.

He emphasized the importance of service reliability, transparent billing, proper metering, and strong consumer protection, noting that customers remain at the centre of the electricity market.

“Licence conditions are binding, and non-compliance will attract appropriate sanctions,” he warned.

In his remarks, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of New Era Electricity Distribution Limited, Engr. Vincent Ekweku, described the development as the beginning of a more structured and accountable electricity market in the state.

“From today, regulation goes into full stream. You can no longer operate without accountability. This will ensure that the Abia electricity market works seamlessly,” he said.

The event underscores Abia State’s firm commitment to building a reliable, transparent, and investor-friendly electricity sector, setting the stage for improved power supply and accelerated economic development.