Shettima Urges States to Harness Electricity Act for Growth

Vice President Kashim Shettima called on state governments to leverage the Electricity Act 2023 to create functional electricity markets and reduce dependence on the Federal Government for local power solutions. Speaking at the National Stakeholders’ Workshop on the Electricity Act 2023 at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja, he stated that Nigeria's industrial ambitions are hindered by inadequate electricity supply.

Shettima, represented by Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, emphasized the Act's potential to decentralize electricity governance, allowing states to develop tailored power markets. He highlighted Nigeria's diverse energy resources, including solar in Sokoto, Borno, and Katsina, gas in Delta, Rivers, and Bayelsa, and hydroelectric potential in Niger and Kebbi.

Shettima warned that legislation alone would not improve electricity supply and urged states to establish regulatory bodies promptly. He proposed a National Electricity Reform Peer Review and Implementation Framework to facilitate experience sharing and regulatory strengthening among states.