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ONDO TO LEAD IN POWER SECTOR REFORM WITH OPEN ACCESS ELECTRICITY REGULATION – AIYEDATIWA
In a bold move to reshape the electricity distribution landscape, Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has declared his administration’s readiness to position the state as a model of progress and innovation in electricity regulation through the proposed Open Access Electricity Distribution and Competitive Retail Regulation 2025.
Speaking through the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. (Dr.) Johnson Alabi, at a stakeholder consultation forum organized by the Ondo State Electricity Regulatory Bureau (OSERB) in Akure, the Governor emphasized that the new regulatory framework aims to end the era of monopolistic electricity distribution, enhance consumer choice, and drive private sector participation.
“Ondo State has suffered from underinvestment in distribution infrastructure and limited consumer access to prepaid meters.This regulation is a strategic response to dismantle bottlenecks, allow multiple service providers, and bring affordable, reliable electricity to all,” he said.
According to a statement signed by the Media Officer in the ministry, Key highlights of the Proposed Regulation are:
• Open access model that allows multiple licensed distributors to operate.
• Enables embedded generators and Independent Power Plants (IPPs) to supply directly to bulk and retail consumers.
• Consumer choice of electricity providers, driving competition and potentially lowering tariffs.
• Focus on equitable access to underserved and rural communities.
Governor Aiyedatiwa praised OSERB for its professionalism and reaffirmed the state’s support for initiatives such as improved meter accessibility, strengthened regulatory independence, and streamlined energy project approvals.
OSERB State Coordinator, Engr. Stephen Bolawole, described the forum as a transparent and participatory effort to ensure the regulatory framework reflects local realities.
The objectives, he said, include: • Gathering feedback from consumers, providers, and traditional leaders.
• Identifying practical gaps before implementation.
• Building consensus and shared ownership of the reform process.
Guest speaker and Legal/Regulatory Consultant, Dr. Imamudeen Talba, provided an in-depth analysis of the regulation’s technical, legal, and economic frameworks.
He noted that while challenges are expected, the long-term benefits—such as improved network reliability and economic stimulation, justify the effort.
“The regulation must be dynamic, evolving with technological advancements and market trends,” he advised.
Notable Attendees were:
• Engr. Sunday Ogundele (Principal Manager, TCN Akure), Mr. Remi Falola & Mr. Olumide Atilola (BEDC Regional Heads), Seun Akinwumi Esq., Royal Representatives: HRH Oba Oyinbade Ademola (Oloba of Uso), Oba Odidiomo Afolabi (Olu of Igbokoda), Alhaji Olabode Yusuf (Permanent Secretary) Ministry of Energy), The State’s Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Adejumo, Engr. Paul Oguntimehin, Engr. Adewumi (OSERB), and Denki Wires MD/CEO, Mrs. Iyabo Adefemi, Community Leader: Pa Demola Ijabiyi and host of others.
The forum concluded with a robust exchange of ideas, recommendations, and collective commitment to advancing electricity reform across the state.
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