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The Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP), Enugu State Chapter, has released a profound statement, unequivocally praising the administration of His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for its “strategic reforms and transformative initiatives undertaken in the Energy and Power sector” since his inauguration on May 29, 2023.

This endorsement comes as part of the CRPP’s ongoing, rigorous “sector-by-sector assessment” of the Mid-Term performance of the current administration, underscoring their commitment to democratic accountability and robust governance.

In their comprehensive press release, jointly signed by Chief Innocent Ezeoha, the State Coordinator; Dr. Afam Ani, the Chairman; and Barr. Ken Ikeh, the Secretary, the CRPP articulated their deep understanding of the energy sector’s pivotal role in societal advancement.

They asserted, “As a coalition devoted to advancing the cause of democratic accountability and good governance, we recognize that access to reliable electricity is indispensable to industrialization, job creation, and inclusive economic growth.” It is within this critical context that the CRPP highlighted Governor Mbah’s “proactive response to the opportunities provided by the 2023 constitutional amendment, which removed electricity from the exclusive legislative list,” describing this action as “highly commendable and visionary.”

A central pillar of Governor Mbah’s success in this vital sector, as identified by the CRPP, is the landmark enactment of the Enugu State Electricity Law. This legislative achievement, they declared, “provides a robust legal and regulatory framework for the decentralization and development of the power sector in the state.”

The CRPP further emphasized that by “swiftly aligning with the amended national constitution, the Mbah administration has demonstrated both legal foresight and a deep commitment to leveraging legislative reform for economic development.”

This groundbreaking law, the CRPP elaborated, directly led to the establishment of the Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC). The EERC is designed as an independent regulatory body, empowered to “license, monitor, and supervise electricity generation, transmission, system operations, distribution, and electricity markets within the state.” Crucially, the CRPP pointed out that the EERC also “plays a critical role in ensuring that service providers comply with safety, reliability, and consumer protection standards.”

The CRPP’s statement further confirmed the immediate impact of these reforms, noting that “the EERC is already in operation, positioning Enugu as one of the few states in Nigeria that have fully domesticated and activated sub-national electricity regulation.”

This swift and decisive action, they observed, “has begun to attract considerable private sector interest in independent power production and distribution, with multiple investors expressing readiness to partner with the state in delivering sustainable energy solutions.”

Beyond legislative and regulatory frameworks, the Mbah administration’s commitment to energy sufficiency is evident in its active pursuit of partnerships. The CRPP highlighted that “the government’s ongoing collaboration with renewable energy companies, gas-powered generation firms, and mini-grid developers reflects a comprehensive and inclusive approach to addressing Enugu’s energy needs.” This multi-faceted strategy underscores the administration’s determination to achieve its ambitious goals.

The administration’s focused drive to achieve energy sufficiency is further manifested in its efforts to “support industrial clusters, markets, and rural communities with off-grid and embedded generation solutions.” The CRPP specifically linked Governor Mbah’s bold “stated target of achieving 24/7 power supply in key economic zones” to his broader economic vision, which seeks to dramatically increase “the state’s GDP from $4.4 billion to $30 billion through industrialization, innovation, and infrastructure development.”

Looking ahead, the CRPP also acknowledged the foundational work being undertaken for “an Integrated Energy Master Plan.” This strategic blueprint, they explained, “will serve as a strategic blueprint for energy expansion, including grid modernization, renewable energy adoption, and utility-scale investments across the state.” The plan, they anticipate, is “also expected to address critical issues such as energy equity, environmental sustainability, and infrastructure resilience.”

In their concluding remarks, the CRPP effusively applauded these “decisive and forward-looking reforms,” asserting that they “are already setting Enugu apart as a pacesetter in sub-national energy governance in Nigeria.” They expressed confidence that these concerted efforts “have the potential not only to improve the quality of life for residents but also to drive industrial competitiveness and enhance the state’s attractiveness to both local and foreign investors.”

While offering their strong commendation, the CRPP also provided constructive guidance, urging the state government to ensure that its power reforms are “inclusive, environmentally sustainable, and responsive to the needs of underserved communities.” They stressed the imperative that “special attention must be given to building local technical capacity, enhancing consumer education, and ensuring affordability for low-income households.”

Furthermore, the CRPP extended a call to action to the federal level, urging “the Federal Government and relevant national institutions to support Enugu State’s efforts by facilitating grid access, fast-tracking approvals for interconnection infrastructure, and providing incentives for private investors aligned with the state’s energy vision.”

The Coalition of Registered Political Parties, Enugu State Chapter, reiterated its strong conviction in Governor Peter Mbah’s leadership, stating, “In conclusion, the Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP), Enugu State Chapter, celebrates Governor Peter Mbah’s bold and strategic leadership in transforming the energy and power sector.” They underscored that “the administration’s achievements in this sector reflect a clear understanding that sustainable electricity access is both a human right and a fundamental driver of economic transformation.”

The CRPP pledged its continued commitment, affirming, “We remain committed to monitoring governance outcomes, offering constructive policy engagement, and supporting all efforts that promote prosperity, stability, and social justice across Enugu State.”