Nigeria: AEDC appoints acting CEO

Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) has announced the appointment of Chijioke Okwuokenye as its acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. According to a statement from the head of marketing and corporate communications, Adefisayo Akinsanya, this appointment is effective immediately.

This appointment is part of the company’s transformation agenda and will see Mr. Okwuokenye drive AEDC’s positioning as the leading, customer-focused electricity distribution company in the Nigerian power sector, according to the statement.

Prior to this role, he served as the company’s Chief Operating Officer, managing strategic support units and embedded generation projects.

“He brings to the role a wealth of experience and expertise in the power sector, as well as a passion for the attainment of the vision for the Nigerian electricity supply industry,” it said.

Commenting on the appointment, the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Stanley Lawson, stated, “Chijioke Okwuokenye is an experienced leader who has significantly contributed to the company’s transformation agenda. With his technical and commercial expertise, I am confident he will continue to drive value for all AEDC stakeholders.”

Additionally, the company announced Olumide Jerome as the new Chief Operating Officer.

Previously serving as one of the company’s Chief Business Officers, Jerome will now focus on driving efficiency and operational excellence across AEDC in his new role.

The company affirmed its commitment to delivering reliable electricity to millions in key commercial centers, including the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja), as well as Kogi, Niger, and Nasarawa states.

Like many other distribution companies, AEDC has faced challenges in improving power supply to its consumers and achieving profitability.

In May 2023, a Transcorp-led consortium became the core investor in AEDC by acquiring 60 percent of the company’s shares.

Since this strategic acquisition, according to the company, it has intensified efforts to upgrade substations, expand distribution networks, and integrate cutting-edge technologies to enhance power supply reliability and operational efficiency.

“AEDC prioritizes customer experience and consistently strives to create value for all stakeholders while contributing to the socioeconomic development of the regions it serves,” it said.