The Anambra State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ASERC) has called for closer cooperation between electricity distribution companies and consumers to improve service delivery, as residents continue to grapple with persistent power supply challenges in southeastern Nigeria.
Speaking at a two-day town hall meeting in Nnewi, ASERC Managing Director Frank Okafor stressed that stronger engagement between stakeholders is essential to tackling issues undermining electricity reliability, including energy theft, vandalism and disputes over estimated billing.
The forum, held at the Umuenem Civic Centre, was part of a public consultation on draft electricity regulations aimed at shaping the state’s emerging power market.
Mr Okafor said the consultations would help establish clearer rules to encourage investment and strengthen accountability among distribution companies.
“We are building a framework that ensures quality service delivery while attracting investment in critical infrastructure,” he said, adding that the commission would continue to enforce standards and protect consumer rights.
ASERC was established under the Anambra State Electricity Law of 2025 as an independent regulator with oversight of generation, transmission, distribution and electricity trading within the state.
The commission is also mandated to license operators, set tariffs and promote competition in the sector.
Okafor acknowledged ongoing supply constraints and appealed for patience from residents, expressing confidence that electricity provision would stabilise as reforms take effect.
He also pledged regulatory support for renewable and clean energy initiatives to expand access, particularly in underserved communities.
“Our goal is to build a transparent, competitive and sustainable electricity market that supports industrial growth and improves living standards,” he said.
The meeting drew representatives from FirstPower Distribution Company Limited, civil society groups, community leaders and electricity consumers, many of whom raised concerns about unreliable supply.
ASERC officials said sustained dialogue with consumers and operators would remain central to addressing the challenges and restoring confidence in the state’s power sector.