By Abasi Ita, Uyo
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, has declared open the Akwa Ibom Electricity Summit 2025, describing it as a turning point in the state’s pursuit of energy security and reliable power supply.
Speaking at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, Ikot Ekpene, on Thursday, Governor Eno said the summit marked a bold step toward resolving the state’s long-standing power challenges.
He emphasized that the event should move beyond dialogue to produce a practical roadmap with timelines, clear responsibilities, and measurable outcomes.
“For decades, our people have lived with the paradox of great energy potential but little to show for it. Electricity is not a luxury; it is a fundamental enabler of modern life,” the governor said. “This summit must deliver a concrete plan that ensures every home, business, and school in Akwa Ibom enjoys reliable power.”
Governor Eno highlighted the importance of collaboration between the state and federal government, noting the recent Memorandum of Understanding with the Rural Electrification Agency to expand access to power in underserved communities.
He added that the state’s electricity reform agenda would be anchored on transparency, professionalism, and partnerships with the private sector, development partners, and local communities.
“Our vision is ambitious but achievable. We will not politicize electricity. We will build a state electricity market that stands the test of time and serves our people,” he assured.
In her welcome address, Deputy Governor and Chairperson of the Summit Organizing Committee, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, described the event as historic, noting that with the passage of the Electricity Act 2023 and the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Law 2025, the state was now positioned to build its own electricity market.
She called on participants, investors, and regulators to engage constructively to develop a State Electricity Sector Action Programme that would drive implementation.
The Minister of Power, represented by his Chief Technical Adviser, Hon. Adedoyin Oluwoniyi, commended Governor Eno for initiating reforms that would stimulate industrial growth and economic expansion.
Other goodwill messages came from representatives of donor agencies, including the UN Development Programme, as well as from the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the governors of Enugu, Abia, Cross River, and Bayelsa States, who all hailed Akwa Ibom for setting a model for others to follow.
The high point of the event was the unveiling of the State Electricity Regulatory Policy and the Akwa Ibom State Electricity Law, performed by Governor Eno, Deputy Governor Eyakenyi, and other dignitaries.
The summit, themed “Attaining Energy Security and Universal Access for Akwa Ibom State within the Framework of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry,” continues with technical sessions aimed at producing actionable strategies for stable power supply across the state.