Abia Governor Alex Otti Signs Mini-Grid Regulation to Boost Power Supply, Curb Rural-Urban Migration
Story: written by Daniel september 11,2025
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has unveiled a new electricity mini-grid regulation aimed at transforming power access in rural communities, reducing rural-urban migration, and driving economic growth across the state.
Speaking at Government House, Umuahia, on Wednesday during the signing of the Abia State Mini-Grid Regulation document, Governor Otti said the policy will unlock investment opportunities in the state’s power sector, improve electricity generation and distribution, and provide energy access to underserved communities.
The governor explained that the regulation, which leverages the 2024 Electricity Act signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, decentralizes Nigeria’s power sector and empowers states to create localized solutions for electricity supply.
According to him, the introduction of mini-grid systems will help lower the cost of doing business, create jobs, especially in the agricultural value chain, and lift millions of people out of poverty.
“Many people who leave rural communities for urban areas do so because of poor electricity supply. With reliable mini-grids, we will make our villages more liveable and attractive, cutting down rural-urban migration,” Otti stated.
He reassured existing players in the electricity industry that the new regulation would complement rather than threaten their operations, noting that all investors with the capacity to add value will be accommodated.
Governor Otti also promised residents of rural areas who have long been disconnected from the national grid that mini-grid projects would soon deliver short- and medium-term energy solutions, bringing light and economic opportunities back to their communities.
