The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Kogi State Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC), Ibrahim Abdwaaris, has attributed persistent power outages in Kogi State and across Nigeria to ongoing challenges on the national grid, stressing that recent outages have further underscored the urgency of decentralised power sector in Nigeria.
Speaking at the Commission’s first anniversary celebration, Abdwaaris said recurring grid disruptions have exposed the limitations of a centrally controlled power system, reinforcing the need for states to assume greater control of their electricity markets.
“Recent outages on the national grid have validated the Federal Government’s decentralization policy on energy mix and regulations. These disruptions have underscored that the path to energy security lies in state-level autonomy,” he said.
He noted that over the past year, Kogi State has taken deliberate steps to reposition its electricity sector following the devolution of regulatory powers from the federal level, enabling more responsive and locally tailored energy solutions.
According to him, KERC has focused on building the foundation for a resilient electricity market through strategic initiatives such as promoting off-grid and mini-grid solutions, integrating renewable energy sources, and strengthening consumer engagement.
“We have streamlined our licensing process to encourage private investment, issuing permits to developers to boost last-mile electrification, while also creating frameworks to harness Kogi’s hydro, solar, and biomass potential,” he stated.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Rural and Energy Development, Engr. Muhammed Abdulmutalib, emphasised the need to expand electricity access to underserved communities, particularly in rural areas, through targeted policies and alternative energy solutions.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, John Ayekomogbon, the Commissioner acknowledged the critical role of KERC in policy formulation and implementation, noting that despite prevailing challenges, the state is steadily advancing towards improved electricity generation and distribution.
In his remarks, the Acting Managing Director of Kogi Electricity Distribution Limited (KEDL), Eboh Desmond, expressed appreciation to customers for their feedback, describing it as essential to improvements in service delivery.
He also commended KERC for fostering an enabling environment for operators in the state.
Stakeholders at the event called for sustained reforms, increased investment, and stronger collaboration among regulators and operators to tackle Nigeria’s electricity challenges.
They expressed optimism that decentralised energy solutions would enhance availability of electricity across the state.
The event featured presentation of permits to mini-grid developers, as well as the issuance of formal operational licences to Kogi Electricity Distribution of Limited.
