Delta State Aims for 24-Hour Electricity as Governor Oborevwori Drives Distribution Reforms
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has pinpointed power distribution—rather than generation—as the primary barrier to progress in Nigeria's energy sector. He has reaffirmed his administration's unwavering commitment to delivering stable and reliable electricity through comprehensive reforms and strategic partnerships.
High-Level Meeting Unveils Strategic Plans
The governor made these remarks on Wednesday during a high-level meeting with the management of Power Acumen Consulting Ltd (PACL), Detail Solicitors, and the Nigeria Infrastructure Bank (NIB) at Government House in Asaba. Oborevwori emphasized that while Nigeria possesses the capacity to generate substantial megawatts of electricity daily, inefficiencies in distribution continue to severely limit access for both households and businesses.
"We have the capacity to generate significant megawatts of power daily, but getting that power efficiently distributed remains the major hurdle," he stated, highlighting the critical need for targeted interventions.
New Electricity Law and Policy Overhaul
To address this persistent challenge, Governor Oborevwori disclosed that his administration has enacted a new Electricity Law designed to strengthen the state's legal and regulatory framework for power sector reforms. Consultants have been engaged to review existing policies and propose practical, implementable solutions, with a comprehensive report expected imminently.
Providing further insight, the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sunny Ekedayen, outlined the state's strategic roadmap aimed at positioning Delta as a hub for industrial growth driven by stable electricity. He revealed that an interim report by consultants recommended a sweeping overhaul of the state's electricity laws and policy framework, underscoring deep-rooted structural issues.
"A detailed and actionable roadmap will be delivered in the coming weeks," Ekedayen said, adding that a key component of the reform would be the establishment of a State Electricity Commission to regulate and coordinate the sector effectively.
Bridging the Generation-Consumption Gap
Earlier in the meeting, the Managing Director of PACL, Engr. Matthew Edevbie, pointed to a significant gap between Delta State's power generation capacity and actual consumption. According to his analysis, the state has an installed capacity of approximately 3,000 megawatts—largely sourced from facilities in Okpai, Ughelli, and Sapele—but currently utilizes less than 200 megawatts.
Edevbie described the "Light Up and Industrialise Delta State Initiative" as an integrated development strategy anchored on reliable electricity supply. "Electricity is the foundation. Delta State is not lacking in generation capacity; what is needed is control over transmission and distribution within its territory," he asserted.
Advocating for State-Controlled Power Grid
He advocated for the development of a state-controlled power grid, noting that recent regulatory changes now permit subnational governments to establish independent transmission systems. Such a move, he explained, would enable Delta State to harness its existing capacity, improve distribution efficiency, and ensure reliable supply, while simultaneously creating long-term economic value.
"With proper coordination, partnerships, and regulatory alignment, Delta State can achieve 24-hour electricity supply in Warri and Asaba before the end of the year," Edevbie assured, setting a clear and ambitious timeline for the initiative.
This concerted effort underscores Delta State's proactive approach to overcoming energy challenges, with a focus on distribution reforms that could serve as a model for other regions in Nigeria.
