By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has officially inaugurated the Anambra State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ASERC).

The inauguration which was done Thursday evening at the Light House seat of power in Awka, marks a significant step towards improving power supply management across the state and also underscores the state government’s commitment to strengthening its electricity infrastructure and enhancing service delivery.

To head the Commission is Prof. Frank Nwoye Okafor, who will serve as both Chairman and Chief Executive Commissioner, while other Executive Commissioners include Engr. Geoffrey Okwuchukwu Nwokoye, Dr. Nnaemeka O. Ewelukwa, Engr. Nosike Emmanuel, and Barr. Chijioke Nnaemeka Obi.

Speaking at the event, the Governor said the team is tasked with overseeing the commission’s operations and regulating electricity supply to meet the growing demands of Anambra’s population and economy.

He expressed appreciation to the appointees for accepting their roles, and urged the commissioners to facilitate the state’s transition into the new electricity market, even as he harped on the importance of operating strictly within the legal framework.

While citing the multidisciplinary backgrounds of the appointees, Soludo stated that they represent some of the best talents available.

He thanked the Anambra State House of Assembly for the swift passage of the enabling law that established the commission with its functions.

Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr. Julius Chukwuemeka, explained that the 2023 Nigerian Electricity Act is currently being domesticated for Anambra State.

He observed that the state has, over time, strategically laid a solid foundation for this development.

According to him, the recently enacted legislation provides the necessary framework for establishing the commission and defining its regulatory responsibilities.

Speaking on behalf of the commission, the Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Okafor, assured that the expectations of Anambra’s citizens will be taken seriously.

While acknowledging the challenges ahead, he expressed confidence in the team’s ability to deliver, pledging that those gaps would now be addressed.

He cited the past shortcomings in the state’s electricity sector and further assured that both the quantity and quality of electricity supply will improve, with the commission prioritizing energy, accountability and revenue assurance.

As ASERC begins its mandate, the Soludo government remains optimistic that the commission will drive substantial progress in the state’s power sector and more so contribute to sustainable development and long-term economic growth across Anambra.