ASERA is now empowered to oversee Abia State’s electricity market, marking a major milestone in the state’s energy sector development.
Abia State Government has officially assumed regulatory authority over electricity within the state, taking over from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) effective December 24, 2025. The transition follows the release of the Final Transfer of Regulatory Authority Order to the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Authority (ASERA) by NERC in Umuahia.
ASERA is now empowered to serve as the statutory regulator for all electricity sector activities in Abia State. Mr. Emeka Onyegbule, Chairman and CEO of ASERA, said the authority takes full effect immediately, completing a six-month transition period that began after NERC’s interim order on June 24, 2025.
“The transition involved setting up necessary structures, appointing the board, and equipping the authority to take over the functions NERC has been performing,” Onyegbule explained during a press briefing. “From today, the responsibility to regulate, oversee, and manage the Abia State electricity market falls solely on ASERA.”
The move is made possible by the 2023 constitutional amendment that allows Nigerian states to generate, distribute, and transmit electricity. Abia State formalized its framework through the Abia State Electricity Law 2025, creating the legal foundation for ASERA’s establishment.
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Prince Okey Kanu, Commissioner for Information, described the development as a key achievement of the current administration, emphasizing its significance for the state’s electricity sub-sector. “The government has enacted its own law and set up ASERA, which represents one of the administration’s signature accomplishments,” he said.
Mr. Ikechukwu Monday, Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, highlighted the broader economic implications. “Operationalizing Abia’s electricity market is critical to achieving the Abia 25-Year Development Plan and accelerating industrialization,” he said.
The journey toward full regulation began on March 17, following Governor Otti’s assent to the Abia State Electricity Law. The establishment of ASERA is expected to enhance oversight, promote efficiency, and attract investment in the state’s electricity market, aligning with national energy reforms and local economic development goals.
As the transition is completed, Abia joins a growing number of Nigerian states taking charge of their electricity markets, signaling a shift toward decentralized energy governance aimed at improving service delivery and fostering industrial growth.
This move positions Abia as a potential model for other states seeking greater autonomy over energy regulation while contributing to Nigeria’s long-term power sector reforms.
