The Yobe State House of Assembly has expedited consideration of a bill aimed at repealing and re-enacting the law that established the Rural Electrification Commission. The proposed legislation, presented by the executive arm of government, has passed its second reading on the floor of the House following thorough deliberations by lawmakers.
The Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Nasiru Hassan Yusuf, led the debate, emphasizing the significance of the commission in accelerating socio-economic development and improving living standards in rural communities. According to Yusuf, the commission would facilitate the deployment of renewable energy sources, including solar mini-grids, wind, and biomass systems, to ensure a reliable and affordable electricity supply across the state.
Lawmakers representing various constituencies, including Mamudo, Karasuwa, Damagum, and Gujba, expressed support for the bill, citing the persistent power challenges in most rural areas of the state. They described the legislation as a welcome development, highlighting its potential to enhance social service delivery, transform rural economies, and boost revenue generation.
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Chiroma Buba Mashio, referred the bill to the House Standing Committee on Transport and Energy for further legislative action. The committee’s review is expected to pave the way for the implementation of a more sustainable power supply system in Yobe State.
The introduction of this bill is timely, given the state’s ongoing efforts to address its energy challenges. Yobe State, like many other parts of Nigeria, has struggled with inadequate power supply, particularly in rural areas. The proposed legislation aims to address this issue by promoting the use of renewable energy sources and improving the overall efficiency of the power supply system.
The passage of this bill could have significant implications for the state’s economic development and the well-being of its rural communities. By ensuring a reliable and sustainable power supply, the state government aims to create an environment conducive to economic growth and social progress. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it is likely to undergo further scrutiny and debate, with the potential to shape the state’s energy landscape in the years to come.
