The Anambra State House of Assembly has moved closer to reforming the state’s power sector with the passage of a bill for the establishment of the Anambra State Electricity Market and the Anambra State Electricity Regulatory Commission through its second reading.
The proposed legislation aims to regulate electricity generation, transmission, system operation, distribution, and supply across the state. It also seeks to expand access to electricity by integrating more communities into the national grid while ensuring reliable and cost-efficient power delivery for residents.
Leading the debate, the Deputy Majority Leader and representative of Njikoka Constituency II, Dr. Jude Akpua, emphasized that the bill is designed to address electricity disparities in the state. He highlighted that the regulatory commission’s key objective would be to provide stable and equitable power access to improve the lives of Anambra residents.
Supporting the bill, Chief Whip and representative of Ihiala Constituency I, Barr. Jude Ngobili, noted its potential to resolve long-standing power challenges, particularly at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli Campus, which has suffered over two decades of electricity deprivation.
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, underscored the importance of establishing an effective regulatory body to oversee electricity matters. He charged the relevant committee to conduct a comprehensive review of the bill to ensure it meets the state’s power needs and promotes economic growth.
The bill’s advancement signals the state government’s commitment to enhancing electricity supply and fostering development through a robust and well-regulated power sector.
