Hope has come alive in Kogi State as the Kogi State Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) officially assumes regulatory oversight of the electricity sector, marking a major step towards access to power for industrial and commercial enterprises as well domestic utilization of energy in Kogi state.
Under the leadership of Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo , the state has leveraged the amended Electricity Act 2023 to take full control of its power sector, reducing reliance on the regulatory and distribution framework of the old order in Nigeria.
As part of this reform, the state government has also established its own power distribution company, Kogi Electricity Distribution Limited (KEDL), a subsidiary company of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) to oversee electricity distribution across the state.
With this development, Kogi State joins the rank of progressive states like Lagos, Enugu, Niger, Kano and others that have taken charge of their electricity generation and distribution. As one of the first few states to exercise this new autonomy, Kogi is setting the pace for others to follow.
The establishment of KEDL means that residents and businesses will no longer have to depend solely on electricity distribution networks outside of the state, and in the coming weeks, Kogites can expect to see significant improvements in the power sector.
For years, unstable electricity has been a major hindrance to economic growth in Kogi, forcing businesses to operate at a loss and leaving many communities without access to power. Small-scale enterprises, including welders, frozen food vendors, and tailors, have been forced to rely on costly fuel-powered generators, severely cutting into their profits.
Even scrap dealers, who contribute significantly to the recycling industry, have to transport materials as far as Kano for proper processing due to the lack of adequate power facilities in Kogi. Governor Ododo understands these struggles as a player in the sector for many years, and through KERC, he is providing a solution that will empower businesses and create an environment for economic growth.
Beyond improving power supply, this transition brings multiple economic benefits. One of the most immediate advantages is job creation for youths. As Kogi expands its power infrastructure, thousands of direct and indirect jobs will be created, from engineers and technicians to administrative personnel and field workers.
Additionally, increased control over electricity distribution allows the state to generate more revenue, which can be reinvested into further expanding the power supply value chain and ensuring more communities get connected to stable electricity.
Another major advantage is improved service delivery. Previously, Kogi residents had to travel to Abuja to lodge complaints regarding billing discrepancies, faulty meters, or erratic power supply. With KERC now regulating the sector within the state, complaints can be addressed faster, making electricity service more responsive and consumer-friendly. The presence of KEDL also means electricity distribution will be handled locally, ensuring quicker resolutions to power-related issues.
This new electricity framework is also expected to attract investors to Kogi State. Reliable power supply is a crucial factor for business expansion, and with the state now managing its electricity sector, industries that previously hesitated to establish operations in Kogi may now reconsider their stance.
Stable electricity will reduce production costs for manufacturers, making Kogi a more attractive destination for businesses across various sectors, including agro-processing, mining, and manufacturing. Given that Kogi’s estimated daily electricity demand stands at 120 megawatts, this initiative is set to bridge the gap between supply and demand, fostering economic development.
Governor Ododo has made it clear that this is not just a bureaucratic change but a transformational shift aimed at improving the lives of Kogites. His administration is committed to ensuring that KERC and KEDL function effectively, not just as regulatory bodies but as drivers of real change. The vision is to move from a state where uninterrupted electricity is a dream to one where 24-hour power supply becomes a reality to active growth and development.
Thus, Kogi’s electricity transformation drive is no longer just about providing power; it is about economic empowerment, industrial growth, and improving the quality of life for all residents.
As disclosed by the Chairman/CEO of the Kogi Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC), Engr. Ibrahim Abdwaaris during a working visit by the Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, this transition is designed to enhance local electricity distribution, streamline service delivery, and improve regulatory oversight.
Abdulwaaris noted that with KEDL now in charge, all electricity matters such as billing, vending and related complaints with operations will be handled within the state and consumers who previously had service agreements with AEDC will have those agreements transferred seamlessly to KEDL.
“This move ensures that Kogi has a self-sufficient electricity distribution framework, there is no need for consumers to travel to Abuja anymore. Everything will now be managed within Kogi, ensuring efficiency and easier access to electricity services.”
He further explained that with the establishment of KEDL, KERC will now oversee the electricity market within the state. The commission will regulate tariffs, enforce service quality standards, and protect consumer rights while ensuring that private investors and stakeholders operate within a structured and competitive electricity market.
“The electricity market in Kogi will function as an investment-driven sector, for it to thrive, investors, regulators, and consumers must understand their roles. Electricity is not free, it operates as a business, and we must work together to ensure sustainability”.
Abdulwaaris further explained that transition has sparked concerns among AEDC employees, particularly about potential job losses, stressed that there is no such concern for now and that employees currently working under AEDC in Kogi State will be absorbed into KEDL, with compensations and salaries managed by the new company.
“In 2013, when Nigeria’s power sector was privatized, many workers were laid off during AEDC’s takeover from PHCN. But this is different. Kogi’s demarcation under KEDL means that human and physical assets within the state automatically belong to KEDL. There will be a structured transition to ensure staff welfare is protected,” he assured.
On the consumer side, some residents speculated that the transition might lead to free electricity. The Chairman dismissed such assumptions, explaining that Kogi’s electricity market, like any other, requires investment and financial sustainability”.
“Electricity is a business, and investors must be able to recover their investments. Kogi State government will not offer free power, but we will ensure a fair and competitive market where consumers receive value for their money,” he assured
However, with KEDL in charge, electricity distribution in Kogi State is expected to improve significantly, eliminating bureaucratic bottlenecks that previously slowed service delivery. The regulatory framework under KERC aims to promote efficiency, attract investments, and create a stable electricity market within the state.
According to the Chairman “This is a new chapter for Kogi’s electricity sector. It will take time for people to fully understand the system, but continuous engagement will ensure that all stakeholders, consumers, employees, and investors adapt to the changes effectively”.
– Mary Amodu Omakoji
Government House Media Centre
