In a significant strategic shift, Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc (AEDC) has officially restructured its corporate framework, transitioning into a Holding Company model. This major reorganization is a direct response to Nigeria's evolving power sector regulations, particularly the Electricity Act of 2023.
A New Structure for a Decentralized Market
The company confirmed this development in a formal statement released on Sunday, January 18, 2026. The pivot to a Holding Company (HoldCo) structure is designed to navigate the new regulatory environment created by the Electricity Act of 2023. This landmark legislation empowers state governments to establish and oversee their own electricity markets, moving away from a purely centralized model.
AEDC leadership states that the new arrangement aims to enhance operational efficiency, corporate governance, and service delivery across all its franchise areas. The core objective is to better meet state-specific regulatory demands while preserving a cohesive group identity.
Birth of Two New Distribution Subsidiaries
As the cornerstone of this transition, AEDC has formally established two new subsidiary companies. These are the Niger Electricity Distribution Company and the Kogi Electricity Distribution Company.
Each new entity will operate under the regulatory authority of its respective state commission: the Niger State Electricity Regulatory Commission and the Kogi State Electricity Regulatory Commission. Despite this decentralized regulatory oversight, both companies will remain integral parts of the broader AEDC Group.
Furthermore, AEDC has indicated that plans are already in motion to extend this HoldCo model to Nasarawa State, with the process slated to commence in the near future.
Fresh Leadership to Steer the New Entities
To manage these newly created subsidiaries, AEDC has announced key executive appointments. Sam Odekina has been appointed as the Chief Business Officer and Acting Managing Director for the Niger Electricity Distribution Company.
Similarly, Desmond Eboh will take on the roles of Chief Business Officer and Acting Managing Director for the Kogi Electricity Distribution Company.
Commenting on the sweeping changes, AEDC's Managing Director and CEO, Chijioke Okwuokenye, emphasized that the HoldCo model enables compliance with diverse state regulations without fragmenting the company's core mission. He affirmed that all subsidiaries will function as one integrated AEDC group.
A critical aspect of this integration is the uniform application of recently approved conditions of service for all employees across the parent company and its subsidiaries. This measure is intended to ensure fairness, maintain workforce stability, and guarantee a smooth transition for staff.
Okwuokenye reiterated that the restructuring aligns with AEDC's broader vision to bolster operational efficiency, adapt proactively to regulatory shifts, and contribute meaningfully to the growth of Nigeria's energy sector. The company remains committed to supporting sustainable, state-regulated electricity markets while upholding high standards in customer service, innovation, and overall experience.
Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc currently supplies power to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and extensive areas in Niger, Kogi, and Nasarawa states, serving a diverse mix of residential, commercial, and industrial customers.
