- ASERC licenses First Power for one year to improve state-wide electricity delivery under the new decentralised market.
- First Power commits to customer-centred operations and full metering by 2027 as Anambra builds its own regulatory framework.
The Anambra State Government has issued an interim licence to First Power Electricity Company Limited. The licence authorises the company to operate as an electricity distributor in the state. Meanwhile, the Chairman and CEO of the Anambra State Electricity Regulatory Commission, Prof. Frank Okafor, announced the development during the presentation ceremony on Thursday, November 27.
He explained that the move supports the goal of achieving steady power supply across the state. Furthermore, he said the government aims to make Anambra a preferred destination for investors. However, he warned that this vision cannot stand if electricity remains a luxury.
According to him, the new temporary licence will run for one year. During this period, the commission will conduct rigorous oversight to ensure that First Power meets its targets. He stressed that the state has now begun a new phase in regulating its electricity market. Additionally, he recalled that Governor Chukwuma Soludo inaugurated five commissioners on October 9, 2025, to oversee the sector.
Okafor also thanked the State House of Assembly for passing the Anambra State Electricity Law. Afterwards, NERC transferred regulatory oversight of the state’s electricity market to ASERC. He noted that the commission resolved to issue interim licences to companies already licensed by NERC and operating in the state. As a result, First Power received a fresh interim licence, with strict terms and conditions.
In his remarks, the Group Managing Director of EEDC, Praveen Chorghade, said the Electricity Act 2023 has reshaped Nigeria’s electricity sector. He added that the Act now allows states to create their own laws, policies and market structures. Moreover, he stated that this shift has encouraged innovation nationwide. He pointed out that Anambra has become a leading model of strategic implementation.
He explained further that EEDC anticipated these reforms and positioned itself early. Thus, FirstPower emerged as part of that strategy. Previously, the subsidiary operated solely under EEDC’s NERC licence. Now, the new state-issued licence marks a significant milestone for a more competitive electricity market in Anambra.
He affirmed that EEDC and FirstPower fully support the state’s development goals. Their plan, he said, aligns with Anambra’s industrial growth, urban expansion, agricultural development, and SME growth. He emphasised that the state offers a transformation model for others facing similar challenges.
Earlier, the Managing Director of First Power, Okechukwu Okafor, said the licence formalises the company’s presence in the state. He clarified that First Power will now operate as an independent entity. He promised collaboration with industrialists, the government and residents. In addition, he stated that the company aims to enhance electricity outcomes and improve customer satisfaction. He expressed hope that all customers will be metered by 2027 to support accountability and transparency.
Finally, officials of the state government, including the Commissioners for Information and for Power and Water Resources, attended the certificate presentation ceremony.