Kogi Electricity Commission Marks Milestone as Lawmakers Applaud Rapid Progress
Within just six months of assuming full regulatory control of the Kogi State electricity market, the Kogi State Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) has made significant strides toward establishing a viable and investor-friendly power sector, the agency’s Chairman/CEO, Engr. Ibrahim Abdwaaris, has said.
Engr. Abdwaaris disclosed this during an oversight visit by the Kogi State House of Assembly Standing Committee on Physical Planning, Urban and Rural Development to the commission’s office in Lokoja.
He explained that the commission, which was once only a legislative idea, now boasts strong legal, financial, and technical frameworks and is actively regulating the state’s power landscape. The transition, he said, reflects the vision of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo under the recently enacted Kogi State Electricity Law of 2024.
“With continued support and adequate funding, KERC is well-positioned to deliver a consumer-focused, resilient, and investment-ready electricity market in line with the administration’s developmental blueprint,” Abdwaaris stated.
The visiting lawmakers, led by Hon. Obaro Emmanuel, who chairs the oversight committee and represents Yagba East Constituency, expressed satisfaction with the commission’s progress and infrastructure. He described the KERC’s achievements as a clear indication of competence and readiness to drive reform in the state’s electricity sector.
He commended members of the House for their support and pledged that the commission would remain committed to its mandate of enhancing energy access and sustainability across the state.
“We are impressed with what we’ve seen today,” Hon. Obaro said. “The structure, organization, and vision of the commission give us confidence that KERC is set to make lasting impact.”
He further applauded Governor Ododo for appointing capable leadership to steer the new agency.
In his remarks, Hon. Jacob Sam Olawunmi, who represents Mopamuro Constituency, called for strategic collaboration between the commission and the State Ministry of Budget and Planning to ensure its operational needs, including vehicles and special allocations, are included in the upcoming state budget.
“You must work closely with the budget office to ensure your requirements are captured. Without that, it becomes difficult to make provisions,” Olawunmi advised.
The oversight visit marks a significant moment of accountability and collaboration as Kogi moves to establish a functional and independent electricity market tailored to local needs.
