Push for Power Sector Reform Gains Momentum as A’Ibom Assembly Receives AKSERC Nominees

By Asuquo Edem

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has commenced legislative action on the establishment of the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Regulatory Commission, following the transmission of a list of five nominees by Governor Umo Eno for screening and confirmation as pioneer commissioners.

The governor’s request, read on the floor during plenary, seeks legislative approval for the nominees who are expected to drive the regulatory framework of the state’s evolving electricity sector.

Shortly after the letter was read, the Speaker of the House referred the nominees to the House Committee on Judiciary, Justice and Public Petitions for detailed screening, directing the committee to report back within two weeks.

The nominees include Engr. Ubong Etokudoh, a Deputy Manager with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, nominated as Commissioner for Engineering; Dr. Valerie Okon Obot, pioneer Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power, Akwa Ibom State, as Commissioner for Finance and Corporate Services; and Mr. Paul Okon, Manager (Commercial) at Ibom Power Company Limited, as Commissioner for Economic Regulations.

Others are Dr. Kalu Ukoha, nominated as Commissioner for Policy, Planning and Innovation, and Ms. Arit Okon Uya, an Assistant General Manager at the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, nominated as Commissioner for Stakeholder Engagement and Consumer Affairs.

The planned commission is expected to serve as the state’s primary regulatory body for electricity, particularly as subnational governments take on expanded roles in the power sector.

The move also reflects outcomes of the state’s recent electricity summit, where stakeholders underscored the urgency of establishing a strong regulatory institution to attract investment, enhance service delivery, and safeguard consumer interests.

After due deliberation on the governor’s request and other legislative matters, the House adjourned plenary to reconvene on April 28, 2026.

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