By Adedotun Ajayi

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In a significant move aimed at improving electricity supply in Ondo State, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has inaugurated a Committee to oversee the transition period of regulatory oversight transfer from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to the Ondo State Government.

The Committee’s principal mandate is to develop modalities for the improvement of electricity supply within the state, ensure smooth transfer of authority from federal institutions to the state and enhance local governance and control over electricity for the benefit of the people of the State,

The inauguration ceremony was held at the Governor’s Office in Akure.

Members of the Committee include  Tunji Light Ariyomo, who is to serve as Chairman, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Energy, Johnson Alabi, who is to serve as the Vice Chairman.

Other members of the Committee are Mrs. Iyabo Adefemi, a former Regional Head of BEDC, and Olumayowa Ajumobi, the Director of Planning of the Ondo State Power Company (OSPC), while the State Coordinator of the Ondo State Electricity Regulatory Bureau (OSERB), Stephen Bolawole will serve as the Secretary.

Mr Gbenga Akeju will represent the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) as a member of the Committee while the BEDC has been directed to nominate a representative.

In his address, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the importance of the transition for Ondo State’s development.

The Governor said: “This committee is a vital step towards achieving our goal of a more efficient and locally controlled electricity regulatory market. By taking charge of our regulatory framework, we can better address the unique needs of our state and ensure a more reliable and sustainable power supply for our citizens. Having a substantial part of Ondo State in darkness is simply unacceptable.”

The transition is expected to streamline regulatory processes, enhance accountability, and ultimately lead to improvements in electricity supply and distribution within Ondo State.

The committee will work closely with various stakeholders, including NERC, and the Benin Disco to ensure a smooth and effective handover.

The inauguration of the Electricity Regulatory Transition Committee marked a milestone in Ondo State’s journey towards energy independence and improved public service delivery.