Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has introduced an extensive ‘Rural Electrification Programme’ aimed at addressing the longstanding issues of infrastructure neglect and energy shortages in rural and semi-urban areas of Edo.
This significant initiative is already bringing electricity to communities, boosting local economies, and transforming development narratives throughout the state.
Led by the Edo State Electrification Agency (ESEA), the program is a key part of the Governor’s commitment to enhance rural community welfare, reduce rural-urban migration, and foster grassroots economic growth.
The state’s goal is to provide electricity to all areas—urban, semi-urban, and rural—through a combination of national grid access, independent power generation, and renewable energy sources like solar mini-grids.
Central to this initiative is the Edo State Electricity Law, recently enacted by Governor Okpebholo, which deregulates the electricity sector and establishes a legal framework for private sector involvement, investment, and localized energy solutions.
“Previously, Edo was constrained by national regulations. With this new law, we have an electricity commission that can license, regulate, and attract investments in electricity generation and distribution. This is not merely reform; it represents a revolution,” stated Hon. Saturday Egbadon, Director-General of ESEA.
Discussions are already underway with various independent power providers, one of whom is set to start operations in a few months. These providers will generate and distribute electricity directly within Edo, thereby reducing reliance on the overstressed national grid and ensuring more dependable access for residents.
The electrification initiative is progressing swiftly across underserved communities, with several villages in the Edo Central Senatorial District, including Ibore, Atuagbo, Ugbaro, and Ikilor, being reconnected to the grid after years of being without power. Ikilor, in particular, has received electricity for the first time in its history, marking a significant milestone.
“This program extends beyond mere infrastructure; it cultivates hope, trust, and shared ownership. In some areas, residents have come together to support contractors and celebrate the return of electricity as a community victory. What was once seen as mere political promises is now a tangible reality,” said Egbadon.
Governor Okpebholo’s approach focuses not only on immediate delivery but also on sustainability. The administration is forming public-private partnerships to ensure the longevity of these projects beyond their time in office.
“We are creating systems that endure beyond individual administrations,” Egbadon noted. “Private investors are integral to ensure growth and maintenance.”
To safeguard investments and infrastructure from vandalism—a persistent issue—the government is enhancing its efforts through community awareness campaigns, legal enforcement, and collaboration with local leaders and youth organizations. The ESEA is advocating for a sense of public ownership.
“This infrastructure is for the people. We encourage communities to safeguard what belongs to them. Vandalism undermines progress, and we will enforce laws to bring those responsible to justice,” Egbadon emphasized.
The administration is also committed to transparent metering and billing practices. Addressing longstanding complaints about estimated bills, the state government has mandated that no household will receive power without a meter. Thanks to the national Mass Metering Programme and partnerships with local manufacturers, meter installation is now guaranteed within 10 working days after payment.
“In every newly electrified village, complete metering will be finished by month-end,” Egbadon ensured.
This electrification effort is a fundamental aspect of Governor Okpebholo’s broader vision for inclusive growth, where infrastructure benefits everyone and development is felt in every ward and community, not just urban areas.
The Edo State Government urges all citizens to support this transformation by protecting public infrastructure, engaging in local development efforts, and reporting acts of sabotage or non-compliance.
As Governor Okpebholo’s administration advances this electrification initiative, it aims to reach more communities and enhance the lives of more residents.
By: Fred Itua
