The Kogi State Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) has introduced a new set of regulations to support the development of mini-grid systems aimed at enhancing electricity access in areas that remain underserved or entirely without power.
This development was revealed during a courtesy visit by the Special Adviser on Media to the Kogi State Governor, Hon. Ismaila Isah, to the Commission’s office in Lokoja. He was received by KERC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Ibrahim Abdwaaris, alongside other members of the leadership team.
In a statement released by the Kogi Government House Media Team, Engr. Abdwaaris explained that the new regulations are part of a broader initiative to decentralize electricity supply and stimulate private sector investment in the state’s power sector.
According to him, the guidelines offer a streamlined licensing procedure for operators interested in generating up to one megawatt of electricity for local communities.
He highlighted that since March 2025, when KERC assumed regulatory authority from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), the Commission has focused on implementing policies that prioritize customer needs and target closing the energy access gap in rural locations.
“Under the new regulation, the licensing process is simplified, charges are minimal, and the environment is investor-friendly. Our goal is to expand access to power and reduce overreliance on the national grid,” he stated.
Engr. Abdwaaris also pointed out that as part of its transition efforts, KERC issued a free, six-month interim licence to Kogi Electricity Distribution Limited (KEDL), a subsidiary of Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), to foster trust and promote improved service delivery under the new regulatory regime.
He added that customer service delivery has significantly improved, with most consumer complaints now resolved within a single billing cycle. He also described the Commission’s customer forum as one of the most responsive and well-structured platforms for engaging electricity users.
To further strengthen investor confidence, the Commission has established specialized courts dedicated to tackling electricity theft.
Commending the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, the KERC Chairman noted that the state’s regulatory progress is driven by the Governor’s appointment of experienced professionals to lead the sector, positioning Kogi as a model for electricity governance nationwide.
During his visit, Hon. Ismaila Isah praised the Commission for its forward-thinking approach and reiterated Governor Ododo’s commitment to supporting initiatives that improve efficiency and accountability in the state’s electricity sector.
He endorsed the mini-grid regulation as a vital move toward addressing the needs of communities that remain outside the reach of the national grid.
“The Ododo administration is committed to creating an enabling environment for innovation in the energy sector. This regulation reflects the Governor’s vision of ensuring that every citizen of Kogi State has access to affordable and reliable electricity,” he said.
