BENIN CITY: Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
The Edo State government, has said the transition from the National Electricity and Regulatory Commission (NERC) to the Edo state Electricity Regulatory Commission(ESERC) will enhance the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The Edo State government, through its Commissioner for Mining and Energy, Hon. Enaholo Ojiefoh disclosed this during the signing of the agreement in Benin City.
Recall that in line with the policies of Mr President Bola Tinubu to decentralized most items under Federal Exclusive List including power to Concurrent List for states, to take advantage of it and consequently, Edo state government decided to leverage on taking over from NERC, for effective and efficient management of the commission, as mandated by Electricity Act 2023.
The Commissioner who represented the state government, expressed joy and gratitude to the federal government for the ample opportunity given to the state for the smooth transition between the stakeholders.
Hon. Ojiefoh who also expressed the significance of taking over from NERC by ESERC, stated that series of public outcry and complaints about the constant blackouts necessitated the demand for transition.
The two parties agreed that both assets, liabilities, employees in Edo state (BEDC) be transferred to the new subsidiary company, and that the transition period was expected to be completed on or before 20th February 2025.
The Hon. Commissioner once again declared that during the period of transition, BDEC is required to incorporate the newly state subsidiary company within two month of being notified from the commission.
According to the Commissioner, the state commission would manage, be responsible for electricity supply, foster local decisions making and enable the state to instantly address some of the challenges of electricity power supply to the citizenry.
Moreso, the two major stakeholders seek synergy and harmonious working relationship in the future improvement and challenges as they may experience ahead.
The consultant once again expressed his optimism for Edo state government to improve her capacity building in maintaining high standard and sustainability, result-oriented investments in the power sector on grid and off grid power generation.
Also present at the occasion was Mr Odion Omofomwan, the lead consultant to the Nigeria Governor’s Forum (NGF) who commended the frantic efforts of Edo state government and NERC in achieving the milestone agreement, stating that the signing of the operational licence was done in order to increase the capability of enhancing a major boost in electricity supply to the state and to increase Micro, Small and Medium scale businesses.