The Edo State Electricity Regulatory Commission (ESERC) has issued a provisional electricity licence to Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) Plc.
The Commissioner for Power, Mr. Paul Usenbo, described the development as a major step toward the effective implementation of Edo’s electricity market. He spoke at the licensing ceremony held in Benin on Tuesday.
Under the Electricity Act 2023, BEDC can no longer operate in Edo under its former federal licence. The company must now obtain and operate under a licence issued by ESERC, which regulates electricity distribution within the state. ESERC will oversee BEDC’s operations, service quality, and the resolution of consumer complaints across Edo.
Usenbo explained that the licensing framework was designed to promote responsible participation by qualified operators and attract sustained private-sector investment. He added that the framework would ensure that consumers, businesses, and industries benefit from improved access to reliable and affordable electricity.
The commissioner congratulated BEDC on securing the provisional licence and urged the company to deepen its investment in Edo, comply fully with the licence conditions, and prioritise improved service delivery to consumers across the state.
He also commended the ESERC chairman and members for laying a solid foundation for the effective regulation of the emerging electricity market.
Also speaking, ESERC Chairman, Mr. Shittu Shaibu, stated that the commission’s mandate extends beyond merely issuing licences to operators. He emphasised that electricity operators would be held accountable for compliance with regulatory requirements and service-delivery standards.
Shaibu said the new regulatory regime would strengthen accountability, improve service quality, and ensure faster resolution of consumer complaints.
According to him, ESERC will adopt a firm, fair, and law-guided approach to regulating the electricity market. He noted that the success of the new regime would ultimately be reflected in improved reliability, responsiveness, and overall electricity service quality.
Receiving the provisional licence, BEDC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jonathan Lawani, welcomed the development and pledged collaboration with ESERC. He stated that BEDC was prepared to fulfil the remaining requirements for obtaining its full licence when due.
Lawani disclosed that the company had already obtained the necessary licences in Ekiti and Ondo states after meeting the relevant regulatory requirements. He commended the Edo State Government for appointing what he described as a competent regulatory team.
He, however, called for collaboration rather than confrontation between BEDC and ESERC. Lawani urged the commission to remain a fair and impartial regulator while allowing healthy competition among market operators. He stressed that regulation should provide a level playing field and avoid situations where operators compete with the regulator or government institutions.
Lawani reaffirmed BEDC’s commitment to working with the state government, ESERC, and other stakeholders to provide reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity.
Meanwhile, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of BEDC Subco, Mr. Henry Onovwaka, said his primary responsibility was ensuring a smooth and efficient transition in line with extant regulations.
BEDC is one of Nigeria’s 11 electricity distribution companies (DisCos) responsible for distributing and retailing electricity to consumers.
