Edo State Showcases Electricity Reforms at AU Summit

The Edo State Government presented its electricity sector reforms at a high-level African Union (AU) energy meeting, aiming to attract fresh investments and enhance sustainable electricity access. Hon.

Paul Usenbo, the Commissioner for Power, represented Governor Monday Okpebholo at the event. Usenbo stated that the presentation of Edo's decentralized power model is part of the administration's strategy to boost industrialization and expand electricity access.

He emphasized that the state's electricity agenda aligns with the AU's Agenda 2063, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7 on affordable and clean energy. Usenbo noted that participation in the AU forum would facilitate collaboration with multilateral institutions and attract development financing.

He attributed the state's invitation to reforms introduced by the Okpebholo administration, including the Edo State Electricity Law and the proposed 100-megawatt Ologbo Independent Power Project. Discussions at the meeting also focused on innovative financing mechanisms and improving electricity access for small and medium enterprises.