NIGERIA, CALABAR – In a landmark move to transform Cross River State’s power sector, the State Executive Council (Exco) convened an emergency meeting on Thursday, March 6, 2025, where it approved the Governor’s presentation for a state-owned electricity policy document.
The newly approved Cross River State Electricity Policy aims to overhaul the state’s energy framework by introducing a competitive market model supported by strong institutional structures.
The policy is designed to significantly improve electricity generation, distribution, and access across the state.
Governor Senator Bassey Edet Otu, represented by Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, presided over the Exco meeting.
The State Attorney General, Mr. Ededem Ani, Esq., was directed to present the policy document on the Governor’s behalf. According to the Governor, the policy will establish three key regulatory entities:
Cross River State Electricity Regulatory Commission (CRSERC) – to provide independent regulatory oversight.
Cross River State Electrification Agency (CRSEA) – to extend reliable power to underserved communities.
Cross River State Independent System Operator (CRSISO) – to streamline system operations.
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The policy also sets an ambitious target of achieving 95% electricity access in the state by 2028, aiming to bridge the energy gap by increasing generation capacity, enhancing transmission and distribution efficiency, and enforcing strong consumer protection measures.
In addition to approving the electricity policy, the Exco also adopted a draft bill for the Cross River State Electricity Law, 2025, which will soon be sent to the State House of Assembly for legislative approval.
Another major resolution from the meeting was the approval of N500 million in counterpart funds to the federal government.
This payment will enable Cross River State to receive a matching grant to support the development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the state.
During his address, Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey explained that the Governor’s absence was due to pressing state matters.
He also commended the state’s security forces for their swift responses in certain flashpoints and encouraged them to replicate these efforts across the state, making full use of the increased mobility provided by the government.
The approval of the electricity policy and other economic initiatives marks a significant step in Cross River State’s journey towards energy sufficiency and economic development.
If successfully implemented, the policy promises to enhance electricity supply, attract investments, and improve the overall quality of life for residents.