The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has officially stepped down from overseeing electricity activities in Abia State, with the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Authority (ASERA) now taking full control of the sector.
On Friday, the state government, through ASERA, granted temporary licences for power generation and distribution to three companies operating within Abia.
Speaking during the licence presentation, ASERA Chairman Emeka Onyegbule said the state has begun a new phase of protecting electricity consumers from unfair treatment. He warned the licensed firms to operate with honesty and follow all rules, stressing that any company that fails to comply will face penalties.
In the same vein, ASERA’s Executive Director for Legal and Regulation, Iguwo Ukwu, advised the companies to ensure transparency in their operations. He noted that billing systems, metering processes, and customer relations must be clear, fair, and in line with approved regulations.
He also emphasized the need for the companies to prioritise consumer protection and respond quickly to customer complaints.
Meanwhile, the Abia State Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Ikechukwu Monday—represented by the Special Adviser to Governor Alex Otti on Energy, Kachu Etolue—urged the companies to provide steady and reliable electricity while maintaining the trust of residents.
The companies that received licences include New Era Electricity Distribution, APL Electricity, and Geometric Power Aba.