Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has identified power distribution—not generation—as the major obstacle to progress in Nigeria’s energy sector, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to delivering stable and reliable electricity through reforms and strategic partnerships.

The governor made this known on Wednesday during a high-level meeting with the management of Power Acumen Consulting Ltd (PACL), Detail Solicitors, and the Nigeria Infrastructure Bank (NIB) at Government House, Asaba.

Oborevwori noted that while Nigeria has the capacity to generate substantial megawatts of electricity, inefficiencies in distribution continue to limit access for households and businesses.

“We have the capacity to generate significant megawatts of power daily, but getting that power efficiently distributed remains the major hurdle,” he said.
To tackle the challenge, the governor disclosed that his administration has enacted a new Electricity Law to strengthen the state’s legal and regulatory framework for power sector reforms.

He added that consultants have been engaged to review existing policies and propose practical, implementable solutions, with a comprehensive report expected soon.

Providing further insight, the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sunny Ekedayen, outlined the state’s strategic roadmap aimed at positioning Delta as a hub for industrial growth driven by stable electricity.

He revealed that an interim report by consultants recommended a sweeping overhaul of the state’s electricity laws and policy framework, highlighting deep-rooted structural issues.

“A detailed and actionable roadmap will be delivered in the coming weeks,” Ekedayen said, adding that a key component of the reform would be the establishment of a State Electricity Commission to regulate and coordinate the sector.

Earlier, the Managing Director of PACL, Engr. Matthew Edevbie, pointed to a significant gap between Delta State’s power generation capacity and actual consumption.

According to him, the state has an installed capacity of about 3,000 megawatts—largely from facilities in Okpai, Ughelli and Sapele—but currently utilises less than 200 megawatts.

Edevbie described the “Light Up and Industrialise Delta State Initiative” as an integrated development strategy anchored on reliable electricity supply.

“Electricity is the foundation. Delta State is not lacking in generation capacity; what is needed is control over transmission and distribution within its territory,” he said.

He advocated for the development of a state-controlled power grid, noting that recent regulatory changes now allow subnational governments to establish independent transmission systems.

Such a move, he said, would enable the state to harness its existing capacity, improve distribution efficiency and ensure reliable supply, while creating long-term economic value.

“With proper coordination, partnerships and regulatory alignment, Delta State can achieve 24-hour electricity supply in Warri and Asaba before the end of the year,” Edevbie assured.