……… …Commissions Water Project.
FIC Report (Abia State) – In a bold step to enhance electricity access and reform the power sector, the Abia State Government, through its Ministry of Power and Public Utilities, has released the final draft of the state’s Minigrid Regulations.
The regulation is aimed at expanding reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to underserved and unserved communities across the state.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this while briefing journalists at the Government House, Umuahia presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
Prince Kanu noted that the initiative aligns with Governor Otti’s broader vision for improved rural electrification, supported by private sector participation and a robust regulatory environment for mini-grid development.
The draft outlines legal, technical, and commercial frameworks, creating a transparent system for decentralized energy development.
As part of ongoing reforms, a 10-man Abia Advisory Council on Electricity will be inaugurated on Thursday, July 24, 2025. The council will provide professional advice on power issues to the Governor.
The Commissioner also announced that the Okweyi Water Scheme in Iseke, Ibeku (Umuahia North) will be commissioned.
In line with efforts to improve power supply, a 1,000 kVA transformer has been donated to serve areas including Niger Street, Bende Road, Methodist by Okwulehie Street through CPS, Umuahia.
In sports development, the state has flagged off the “Abia Soccer Festival,” a football competition that runs from the ward level to LGAs and then to the state level.
On youth digital empowerment, the Abia TechRise Cohort 2 Computer Based Test (CBT) has been scheduled for Friday, July 25, 2025.
Out of 8,167 applications received, 1,407 were deemed unsuccessful due to invalid or fake Abia State Social Identification Numbers (ABSIN).
Prince Kanu also noted that the state recently hosted the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) Stakeholders Town Hall, and plans are underway for the 2026 Business Enabling Reform Action Plan (BERAP).
Abia’s ranking in the Ease of Doing Business index has improved from 33rd to 21st, and further progress is anticipated in the 2025 ratings.
Present at the press briefing were the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday; Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma; and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha.
Signed
Abiakam Gloria Ify
HOC, FIC Umuahia Abia State.
22-07-2025
