Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has signed into effect the Abia Mini-Grid Regulation Framework, a policy document designed to expand electricity generation and distribution to unserved and underserved communities across the State.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, held on Wednesday at the Government House Umuahia, Governor Otti noted that the event marks the culmination of months of planning, stakeholder engagements, confidence-building measures, ideation, and policy reviews by experts, investors, and energy consumers.
“We have gathered to collectively adopt a new framework that would not only expand our options in the push for reliable electricity for everyone, but would ultimately serve as a catalyst for the industrialisation of Abia and economic fulfilment for millions of individuals.
“The formal adoption of the Abia State Mini-Grid Regulation Framework marks the dawn of a new era for households and businesses.
“The formalisation and adoption of the Abia State Mini-Grid Regulatory architecture is also hinged on the new legal framework, which empowers states, private investors, and institutions to invest in the electricity value chains with the objective of extending access to millions of persons, especially in underserved and unserved communities”, he said.
Governor Otti explained that the framework provides clear and comprehensive answers to both technical and commercial questions from investors and consumers, defines the rights and obligations of stakeholders, and establishes mechanisms for the speedy resolution of disputes.
He extended appreciation to the International Solar Alliance (ISA) for their support and commitment to the successful delivery of the initiative.
Addressing the State’s international partners, Governor Otti emphasised that the mini-grid programme aligns with Abia’s shared vision of a carbon-neutral future, stating that the ISA has proven to be a reliable partner.
He further assured the international community that his administration is committed to global calls for increased investment in the renewable energy sector.
The Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Mr Ikechukwu Monday, in his address, described the Abia Mini-Grid Regulation Framework as a foundational policy that will unlock access to electricity in unserved and underserved areas adding that it is part of the broader Statewide Energy Development Programme.
According to the Commissioner, Abia is now one of the first sub-national governments in Nigeria to formally establish a comprehensive legal and institutional framework for mini-grid development, a development he said, sends a strong signal to investors, developers, and citizens that Abia is open to energy innovation.
The representative of International Solar Alliance Ms Onyi Iyizoba while presenting the mini-grid regulations, described the event as a significant milestone for both Abia State and Nigeria’s wider energy access and transition efforts.
She noted that the commitment shown by Governor Otti in creating an enabling framework for the Mini-Grid reflects the strong dedication of his administration to improving energy access and security.
Ms Iyizoba expressed optimism that the mini-grid regulations would unlock new investments, accelerate rural electrification, and improve the quality of life and business operations for numerous residents across the state.
Presenting key aspects of the new Mini-Grid Regulation, Mr Joanis Holzigel highlighted that Abia is the first state in the country to adopt such a regulatory framework.
He noted that the framework guarantees defined procedures and timelines for registration and permitting, tariff setting and review processes as well as encourages community engagement while promoting rural industrialization.
