The Federal Government has pledged to partner with Akwa Ibom State in delivering affordable and universal access to electricity as part of efforts to drive industrial development and improve living standards.

Adedayo Adelabu, Minister of Power, gave the assurance in his keynote address at the opening of a two-day electricity summit organised by the Akwa Ibom State Government held in Ikot Ekpene, about 20 kilometres from Uyo.

Represented by Adedayo Olowoniyi, Chief Technical Officer, Adelabu said State-led initiatives that align with Federal Programmes are vital to achieving electricity access for all Nigerians.

“Our common goal is sustainable energy. When we work together, we expand access and improve lives,” he said. The minister lauded Akwa Ibom’s efforts, urging the state to channel energy reforms towards industrialisation to “put income into the hands of our people.”

Umo Eno, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, in his remarks, outlined the State’s ambitious energy vision, stressing that electricity should be seen as a basic necessity.

“Electricity is not a luxury; it is a fundamental enabler of modern life,” he said.

The governor linked electricity access to better healthcare, stronger agricultural value chains, improved artisanship, and brighter futures for students.

He noted that under the Akwa Ibom Electricity Policy 2024 and Electricity Law 2025, the State now has the legal and regulatory framework to establish the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Market (AKEM).

“Akwa Ibom’s reforms will be implemented within the broader context of Nigeria’s evolving power sector,” he said, adding that collaboration with the Federal Government and neighbouring states will be crucial in addressing gaps in grid connectivity.

Eno criticised past failures by the four Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) States, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Rivers, to secure energy security, despite efforts dating back 15 years.

He argued that with the Electricity Act 2023, the time had come for States to assume greater responsibility.

“To achieve this, the four states must work closely with the National Council on Privatisation and the Bureau of Public Enterprises,” he said.

Electricity access, he added, is central to the state’s ARISE Agenda, which promotes rural development, clean water, and renewable energy. Projects such as solarised healthcare centres and schools, compressed natural gas (CNG) transportation, and the introduction of electric vehicles are already in motion.

The governor also challenged PHED to create subsidiaries in each of the four States, giving host Governments more influence and ensuring accountability. He emphasised that Akwa Ibom prefers a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model that attracts development finance, ensures technical expertise, and protects consumers from excessive tariffs.

“Our vision is ambitious but achievable,” Eno declared. “It demands transparency, professionalism, and integrity. We must avoid politicising electricity supply or compromising regulatory independence.”

He invited the Federal Government, investors, professionals, civil society, and citizens to join in the journey of lighting up every community in Akwa Ibom.

“Let us make our state a model for electricity reform in Nigeria,” he said.

The summit climaxed with the unveiling of the State Electricity Policy and Law by Governor Eno, supported by stakeholders and representatives of the governors of Abia, Enugu, Bayelsa, and Cross River.