The Federal Government has been entrusted with the task of creating an all-encompassing Integrated National Electricity Policy alongside a well-defined Strategic Implementation Plan, as per the requirements set forth by the Electricity Act of 2023. According to the media, President Bola Tinubu approved the electricity bill on June 9, transforming it into a law that grants states, companies, and individuals the authority to produce, transfer, and deliver electricity. Consequently, the Electric Power Sector Reform Act (EPSRA) of 2005 was annulled, prompting the emergence of a complete legal and institutional structure to oversee the National Electric Power Sector.
On November 27, 2023 in Abuja, the Nigeria Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) hosted a legislative roundtable, where Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, revealed significant information about the sector. The discussion also involved representatives from the judiciary and various other parties. The media also reports that an interactive discussion was held regarding the implementation and adherence to technical standards and regulations within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) as well as other related sectors. He claims that the power ministry and the National Council on Power are diligently collaborating to present the policy for approval to the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
NEMSA’s position as enforcer of standards established.
According to the minister, the consolidation of legislations in the NESI by the Electricity Act has significantly fortified the position of NEMSA as the primary enforcer of technical and regulatory standards mandated by the law. The primary aim of this provision is to ensure the well-being and security of both individuals and their assets. In order to achieve this objective, several affiliated organizations have been assigned specific responsibilities within the framework of their respective legislations.
Also, the minister expressed satisfaction with the auspicious timing of the roundtable, highlighting its informed theme. He emphasized the significance of this gathering to exchange perspectives on the recent reforms implemented in NESI due to the Fifth Alteration to the 1999 Constitution (as amended), alongside the re-enactment of the Electricity Act of 2023. “It is time to take stock of where we are and where we are going. As you are all aware, it’s one of the major fallouts of the amendment to the Fifth Alteration,” he said.
A system capable of providing a secure and dependable electricity supply.
Further, he noted that the acknowledgement of the significant contributions made by various entities involved in the NESI (Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry), including not only the national state actors and other stakeholders but also the legislature and the judiciary, is a commendable display of leadership exhibited by NEMSA’s management. Victor Okolo, the Chairman of the House Committee on Power, emphasized the necessity of guaranteeing that all electrical installations within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) adhere to the proper technical standards, regulations, and specifications.
Okolo, who was represented by Rodney Ambaiowei, stated that the primary purpose of implementing technical standard regulations and specifications is to establish a system that is capable of providing a secure and dependable electricity supply, which will ultimately ensure the safety and protection of both individuals and their possessions. The chairman noted that the lack of sufficient understanding about the agency and its role has led to NEMSA facing significant opposition while trying to fulfil its mandate.
Government to commit resources to execute NEMSA’s duties.
By the conclusion of the conference, which was held to discuss the mandate, each participant will have a much deeper understanding of NEMSA’s mission and will be prepared to actively disseminate the information they had acquired to any interested parties. The Federal Government also reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring NEMSA receives the necessary financial resources and support to effectively carry out its duties. This support is instrumental in helping NEMSA develop a national power policy for the nation.
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