Nigeria’s Senate has opened debate on a new bill that aims to save the country’s power sector from collapse. The proposed law, an amendment to the Electricity Act of 2023, is being sponsored by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South).
During the debate, Senator Abaribe warned that Nigeria’s electricity system faces a serious crisis. He pointed to growing debts, widespread vandalism, legal conflicts, and poor regulation as major threats to the sector’s survival.
“This bill is not a routine fix. It’s a lifeline for a failing power sector,” Abaribe told the chamber.
What the Bill Seeks to Achieve
The amendment contains 28 key provisions designed to improve how the electricity sector works. It proposes:
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Clearer rules between federal and state regulators
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Strict penalties for vandalism
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Better protection for consumers
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New labour guidelines
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Reforms to subsidy systems
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Stronger support for local communities
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Policies that boost investment
These changes, according to Abaribe, are based on recent findings from a Senate probe into Nigeria’s electricity sector. While the full report is not yet public, he described the results as “deeply troubling.
No Extra Cost to Government
To ease concerns, Abaribe said the bill would not add new spending for the federal government. Instead, it would help cut waste, make operations more efficient, and regain investor confidence.
“The power sector is failing, and the cost of inaction is too high. We must act now,” he urged.
What Comes Next?
The bill has now moved to the second reading stage. Over the coming weeks, key stakeholders including energy companies, regulators, and consumer groups are expected to watch the progress closely.
For years, Nigeria’s power sector has struggled with poor infrastructure, weak management, and unreliable service. This new amendment could offer a path forward but only if it’s passed and implemented effectively.
