The Edo State Government has advanced its Electricity Reform’s efforts with a courtesy visit to the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) Headquarters in Benin City, towards improving the availability of electricity in the State.
According to the Commissioner for Power, Barr. Paul Usenbo, the engagement forms part of his drive to deliver on the Sen. Monday Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda, which places the welfare of the residents and dependable public service at the centre of state governance.
The Commissioner outlined the State’s priority areas for improving electricity distribution to include tackling operational constraints, expanding structured cooperation between the Ministry and the BEDC, improving service efficiency, and ensuring that ongoing projects receive appropriate government support. He noted that Edo people expect a more dependable supply system and declared that the State is building a service environment driven by transparency, performance and alignment with citizens’ needs.
Barr. Usenbo acknowledged the BEDC’s significant monthly financial remittance to the Edo State Government, stating that such contributions must result in clear improvements for consumers. He reaffirmed that the administration of Sen. Okpebholo is committed to reforms adding that the governor will modernise the Electricity Sector and ensure fairness, accessibility and accountability for stakeholders.
The Commissioner assured the BEDC Leadership of the Edo State Government’s support, pledging strong cooperation, particularly in tackling vandalism, improving public compliance and strengthening community engagement in line with the SHINE Agenda. He concluded that the State Government is ready to work closely with the BEDC to establish a sustainable path that will serve both the Company and the people of the State.
The BEDC Managing Director, Engr. Jonathan Lawani, described the Commissioner’s visit as a clear demonstration of government support. He stated that the BEDC’s work in Edo State is guided by service to humanity and the advancement of social and economic development before commercial interest. He provided background on the BEDC’s present ownership arrangement, explaining that after investor defaults following the national privatisation programme, the Company, with several other distribution companies, was taken over by a consortium of banks working with the Bureau of Public Enterprises and the Edo State Government.
Engr. Lawani confirmed that BEDC was in the process of securing a new investor who will stabilise and expand its operations. He raised concerns about persistent challenges that continue to affect service delivery to include continued damage to electricity infrastructure across the State, electricity theft, refusal by some consumers to pay their bills, and rejection of meter installation. He however appealed to the State Government to assist in addressing the issues, stressing that progress in such areas is essential for delivering a stable and reliable electricity supply.
The visit represents another decisive step in Edo State’s wider reform effort to build a dependable, people focused electricity system that will support economic growth, industrial development and improved quality of life across the State.
