History

History of ANED

The Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED) was established to unify and represent the interests of Nigeria’s electricity distribution companies.

ANED originated from the “DisCo Roundtable”, an informal gathering of electricity distribution company operators formed following the privatization of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) successor Distribution Companies (DisCos) in early 2014. Recognizing the need for a formalized industry body, the DisCo Roundtable evolved into ANED, which was officially incorporated in January 2015. Today, ANED represents the eleven (11) PHCN successor DisCos across the country.

Key Events in ANED’s History

Pre-Privatization (1999-2015)

  • The Nigerian government initiated plans to reform the power sector, aiming to increase efficiency and attract private investment.

  • The Electric Power Sector Reform Act (EPSRA) was enacted in 2005, paving the way for privatization.

Privatization and the Emergence of ANED (2015)

  • In 2015, the Nigerian government successfully privatized the distribution arm of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), leading to the creation of 11 electricity distribution companies (DisCos).

  • The new owners of the DisCos recognized the need for a unified voice to represent their interests and address common challenges.

  • ANED was officially formed in January 2015, with the primary objective of promoting the interests of the DisCos and advocating for policies that support the development of the Nigerian electricity sector.

Founding & Pioneer Members of ANED

ANED was founded by visionary leaders in the electricity distribution sector who recognized the need for a unified body to navigate the challenges of a newly privatized electricity industry. The founding members were drawn from the leadership of the eleven successor DisCos, with a strong commitment to driving efficiency and sustainability within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

Among the pioneering figures who played a crucial role in ANED’s establishment were:

  • Mr. Neil Croucher (Pioneer MD/CEO -Abuja Disco | Pioneer ANED Chairman)
  • Mrs. Funke Osibodu ( Pioneer MD/CEO -Benin Disco)
  • Mr. Robert Dickerman ( Pioneer MD/CEO – Enugu Disco)
  • Engr. Oladele Amoda (Pioneer MD/CEO – Eko Disco)
  • Engr. Fortunato Leynes (Pioneer MD/CEO – Ibadan Disco)
  • Late Engr. Abiodun Ajifowobaje (Pioneer MD/CEO – Ikeja Disco)
  • Engr. Jon Abass (Pioneer MD/CEO – Port Harcourt Disco)
  • Engr. Garba Haruna (Pioneer MD/CEO – Kaduna Disco)
  • Dr. Jamil Gwama (Pioneer MD/CEO – Kano Disco)
  • Muhammad Gidado Modibbo (Pioneer MD/CEO – Jos Disco)
  • Engr. B.U. Mustapha (Pioneer MD/CEO – Yola Disco)

Subsequently, the following  Disco MD/CEOs also contributed significantly to the growth of ANED

  • Mrs Bola Onagoruwa (Former DG BPE – Former Ibadan Disco)
  • Engr. Ernest Mupwaya (Former MD/CEO – Abuja Disco)
  • Mr. John Donnachie – ( Former MD/CEO – Ibadan Disco)
  • Engr. John Ayodele ( Former MD/CEO – Ibadan Disco)

Pioneer ANED Executive Management

  • Mr. Azu Obiaya – MD/CEO (2015 – August 2024)
  • Barrister Sunday Oduntan –
    Executive Director, Research & Advocacy (2015 – August 2024)

Notable Core Investors

ANED had a lot of support from the core investors, including but not limited to the following:

  • Otunba Gbolade Osibodu – Benin Disco
  • Alhaji Tukur Modibbo – Jos Disco
  • Alhaji Yusuf Hamisu – Kaduna Disco
  • Dr. Kola Adesina – Ikeja Disco
  • Dr. Olatunde Ayeni – Ibadan Disco
  • Capt Hosa Idahosa – Ibadan Disco
  • Mr. Charles Momoh – Eko Disco
  • Mr Ernest Orji – Eko Disco
  • Barr. George Etomi – Eko Disco
  • Dr. Dere Otubu – Eko Disco
  • Kester Enwereonu – Enugu Disco
  • Engr. Matthew Edevbie – Port Harcourt Disco
  • Dr. Ransome Owan – Port Harcourt Disco

Pioneer ANED Consultant (January 2015)

  • Rahila Thomas – Country Director – EMRC

These pioneers, alongside other key industry stakeholders, laid the foundation for ANED’s advocacy, ensuring that the association became the central voice for electricity distribution companies in Nigeria.

ANED’s Role in NESI

In a newly privatized Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), ANED plays a critical role in advocating for the distribution segment of the electricity value chain. As the collective voice of the DisCos, ANED engages with legislative, regulatory, and governmental stakeholders, ensuring policies align with the industry’s growth and sustainability. Furthermore, the association promotes knowledge sharing, capacity building, consumer awareness, and the establishment of industry best practices in electricity distribution services.

ANED firmly believes that through collective representation, the DisCos can better fulfill their role in NESI, engage productively with other industry stakeholders, and enhance service delivery to electricity consumers. Membership in ANED ensures the adoption of best business practices, ultimately improving productivity, operational efficiency, and commercial sustainability within the electricity sector. As an advocate for private-sector-driven efficiency, ANED remains committed to supporting its members in their pursuit of delivering reliable, 24/7 electricity supply and superior customer service across Nigeria.

Mr. Azu Obiaya

Pioneer MD/CEO of ANED ( 2015 - August 2024)

Barrister Sunday Oduntan

Executive Director (Research & Advocacy) - 2015 - August 2024

Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer - August 2024 - Date

Trust and Worth

Our Clients