Edo State has opened a new chapter in Nigeria’s evolving electricity market with the issuance of a provisional electricity licence to BEDC Electricity Edo Ltd by the Edo State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ESERC).
The development is expected to deepen competition, attract fresh private-sector investment and improve electricity supply to households, businesses and industries as the state moves towards the full operation of its regulated electricity market.
Speaking at the licensing ceremony in Benin City on Tuesday, Edo State Commissioner for Power, Paul Usenbo, said the framework was designed to encourage qualified operators and sustained investment in the power sector while ensuring better service for consumers.
Usenbo urged BEDC to deepen its investment in the state and comply with the conditions of the provisional licence, stressing that improved access to reliable and affordable electricity must remain central to the new regulatory regime.
The commissioner assured investors of the state government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for private-sector participation while protecting the rights and interests of electricity consumers.
Chairman of ESERC, Shittu Shaibu, said the commission would enforce compliance with regulatory requirements and service standards, adding that its responsibilities included accountability, improved service quality and faster resolution of consumer complaints.
Receiving the licence, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of BEDC Electricity Plc, Engr. Jonathan Lawani, said the company was ready to work with ESERC and the Edo State Government to develop the state’s electricity market, noting that BEDC had obtained similar licences in Ekiti and Ondo states.
Lawani, however, urged ESERC to promote collaboration and fair competition rather than confrontation as the new market structure takes shape.
He reaffirmed BEDC’s commitment to providing reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity, adding that the success of the framework would ultimately be measured by increased investment, improved infrastructure, stronger consumer protection and better service delivery across Edo State.