- The House Committee will host a conference to tackle safety and substandard equipment issues in Nigeria’s electricity sector.
- Persistent challenges like vandalism and theft are prompting increased oversight and regulatory action by the Committee.
The House of Representatives Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations has voiced strong concerns regarding safety issues and the use of substandard equipment within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). Dr. Suleiman Abubakar Gumi, Chairman of the Committee, underscored the House’s dedication to reinforcing safety laws in the sector.
In response to these safety challenges, the Committee, in partnership with the Association for Public Policy Analysis, is organising a conference to identify and implement solutions. The Nigerian power sector has been highlighted as a critical area where adherence to safety standards and regulatory policies is crucial.
Dr. Gumi emphasised that the Federal Government has enacted laws and established institutions specifically designed to oversee and enforce safety regulations within the electricity sector. These measures aim to ensure safe, reliable, and high-quality electricity services while preventing accidents, protecting lives and property, and mitigating issues such as electrical mishaps and vandalism.
Despite these governmental efforts, significant challenges persist. Issues such as vandalism, theft, unlicensed electrical installations, and the use of substandard materials continue to undermine safety in the sector. The upcoming conference is set to bolster the Committee’s oversight and investigative functions, as Section 88 of the 1999 Constitution mandates.
The conference’s primary objective is to enhance safety standards and regulatory frameworks within the electricity sector. By facilitating a collaborative dialogue among stakeholders, the Committee aims to foster effective legislative measures and safeguard Nigerian citizens from the risks of inadequate electrical infrastructure.
The initiative reflects the House of Representatives’ proactive approach to addressing pressing safety concerns and reinforcing the integrity of the nation’s electricity supply industry. As the Committee prepares for the conference, it remains committed to ensuring that regulatory policies are established and rigorously implemented to promote a safer and more reliable electricity network for all Nigerians.