• Privatisation yet to meet expectations, says group
The groundbreaking of a 100-megawatt Independent Power Plant (IPP) in Ologbo, Edo State, has reignited calls for urgent regulatory reforms to break longstanding electricity monopolies and attract investment into the state’s power sector.

According to the Lead Consultant on Power to the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), Odion Omonfoman, the Ologbo IPP represents a critical turning point in Edo State’s pursuit of reliable electricity.

“The Ologbo IPP groundbreaking event represents a defining moment in Edo State’s journey towards delivering reliable power within its boundaries,” he said.

For decades, the state has struggled with erratic electricity supply, a situation blamed for stifled industrial growth, the high cost of doing business, and declining quality of life.

“The persistent cries of our citizens recently echoed in the protests at Ring Road, which Governor Monday Okpebholo remarkably joined in solidarity, are not just about darkness; they are about the stifling of small businesses, the high cost of living, and the frustration of an electricity monopoly that has long outlived its efficacy and necessity,” Omonfoman added.

While the governor’s solidarity with the protesters against the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) has been welcomed, Omonfoman warned that political empathy must translate into firm policy measures.

Central to this, he explained, is the immediate establishment of the Edo State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ESERC), which he described as the “engine room” for the state’s electricity market.

“The path to breaking the BEDC monopoly and lighting up Edo State lie in the immediate and effective constitution of the ESERC,” Omonfoman said.

He noted that the legal framework to establish the commission is already in place, stressing that the Edo State Electricity Law 2025 grants ESERC the authority to license and regulate all segments of the electricity value chain, from generation to distribution.

Meanwhile, the Coalition for Affordable and Regular Electricity (CARE) said Nigeria’s power privatisation has yet to fully deliver the expected improvements in electricity supply and service delivery.

The National Coordinator of CARE, Chinedu Bosah, said this in an interview with newsmen yesterday in Lagos.

Bosah said the reform had not achieved all its intended objectives, noting that many electricity consumers still experience challenges in accessing a reliable power supply.

He said electricity distribution companies (DisCos) needed to strengthen service delivery and address concerns relating to estimated billing and metering.

According to him, some consumers continue to incur additional costs to access electricity services, including investments in infrastructure such as transformers and meters.

Bosah also noted that stakeholders in the sector must continue to work toward improving generation capacity and strengthening transmission infrastructure.

He emphasised the importance of sustained reforms and investments to enhance efficiency and ensure better outcomes for electricity consumers.