Abia Government Unveils Mini-Grid Regulation to Boost Rural Electrification and Private Energy Investment

The Abia State Government has released the final draft of its mini-grid electricity regulation, marking a major stride toward overhauling power supply systems across the state, particularly in underserved and rural communities.

This initiative was announced by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, following the State Executive Council meeting held on Monday and chaired by Governor Alex Otti. The regulation, according to Kanu, is part of a broader strategy to attract private sector investment, accelerate rural electrification, and ensure reliable and affordable electricity for all Abians.

“This move is aimed at supporting the expansion of reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity access across underserved and unserved communities in the state,” Kanu stated.

The new framework provides detailed legal, technical, and commercial guidelines for operating mini-grids, setting the stage for a decentralized energy model that promotes transparency, flexibility, and innovation in power generation and distribution.

While the southern axis of the state is expected to benefit significantly in the early stages due to higher urban activity, Kanu emphasized that the implementation will be statewide and inclusive.

“This initiative aligns with the broader vision of His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, to enhance rural electrification through private sector participation and enabling regulatory certainty for mini-grid development,” he added.

In a related development, the government announced the inauguration of a 10-member Abia Advisory Council on Electricity scheduled for July 24, 2025. This council will serve as a strategic think tank to provide expert guidance to the Governor on all matters concerning power generation, distribution, policy, and reform.

The creation of the council underscores the Otti administration’s long-term commitment to repositioning the power sector as a critical driver of economic growth and social development.

The state is also set to commission the Okwuiyi Water Scheme Project in Isiseke, Ibeku, Umuahia on July 23, 2025, a day before the council inauguration. The water scheme, once operational, will bring clean and safe water to households in the area—a key milestone in fulfilling Governor Otti’s promise to make potable water accessible to all communities across Abia.

“These reforms in both the power and water sectors represent our resolve to deliver basic infrastructure that changes lives,” Kanu said.

Abia’s push for mini-grid regulation, combined with advisory leadership and critical infrastructure projects like the Okwuiyi Water Scheme, signals a shift toward sustainable, community-focused governance. It also opens the door for investors, development partners, and technical experts to play a role in reshaping the state’s energy and water future.