Governor Alex Otti Inaugurates Governing Board of Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency (ASERA), Targets Power Sector Reform
In a bold move to reform the electricity market and enhance energy governance, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex C. Otti, has inaugurated the Governing Board of the newly established Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency (ASERA).
The agency, created under the Abia State Electricity Law of 2025, is tasked with driving institutional, structural, and regulatory changes in the power sector, following the constitutional amendment that devolved electricity regulation to subnational entities.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Governor Otti emphasized that the formation of ASERA is a critical step in actualizing his administration's vision of building a reliable, efficient, and sustainable electricity supply system for the people of Abia State.
"This board is not just regulatory; it will serve as the engine room for the transformation of our electricity value chain," Governor Otti stated. "We are building an energy ecosystem that promotes innovation, investment, and affordability."
The Governor inaugurated three distinguished professionals into the ASERA board, with two additional members to be sworn in at a later date. Those inaugurated include:
1. Engr. Iheanyi Y. Weze- A seasoned engineer with vast experience in grid management and energy infrastructure.
2. Onwuegbule Karen Eberechukwu- A legal and policy expert in energy market regulation.
3. Dr. Joy Oti- A development economist and sustainability advocate with global experience in power sector reforms.
These board members are drawn from reputable national and international institutions operating in the energy and allied sectors, and are expected to bring their wealth of expertise to bear in setting a new benchmark for efficiency, competitiveness, and transparency in Abia's electricity market.
The ASERA board is expected to regulate all electricity activities within the state including licensing, tariffs, consumer protection, and dispute resolution with the ultimate goal of delivering reliable and affordable electricity to homes, businesses, and industries across Abia.
Governor Otti reiterated that the agency would collaborate with private investors, DisCos, renewable energy providers, and relevant federal bodies to unlock new investments and ensure energy access for all.
"This marks the beginning of a new era in Abia's economic development. Power drives productivity, and with ASERA in place, we are laying the groundwork for industrial revival, job creation, and innovation," the Governor added.
The ceremony was attended by key stakeholders from the energy sector, members of the State Executive Council, development partners, and civil society representatives.
