Reps probes 17-year power sector reforms

The House of Representatives has commenced a comprehensive investigation into Nigeria’s power sector reforms spanning 17 years, with Speaker Abbas Tajudeen declaring that the legislature is determined to correct longstanding inefficiencies in the industry. Speaking at the inauguration of the investigative hearing on Thursday, the Speaker, represented by the Chairman of the House Committee on […]

The House of Representatives has commenced a comprehensive investigation into Nigeria’s power sector reforms spanning 17 years, with Speaker Abbas Tajudeen declaring that the legislature is determined to correct longstanding inefficiencies in the industry.

Speaking at the inauguration of the investigative hearing on Thursday, the Speaker, represented by the Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Hon. Mike Etaba, said the House has a constitutional obligation to ensure that billions invested in the power sector translate into improved service delivery for Nigerians.

He lamented that despite successive reforms since 2007, the sector has remained plagued by poor infrastructure, weak capacity, and unreliable electricity supply.

“Electricity, as we all know, is the lifeblood of modern civilization. No nation attains sustainable progress without reliable power supply. Regrettably, the Nigerian power sector has witnessed numerous challenges that have hindered its growth and efficiency,” he said.

Abbas said the establishment of the Ad-Hoc Committee was in line with Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Order 20 Rule 7 of the House Standing Orders, empowering lawmakers to investigate government ministries, departments, and agencies.

He noted that the probe would enable the House to assess the successes and failures of reforms undertaken in the last 17 years and determine whether investments in the sector have been judiciously applied.

“We must ask ourselves: Have these reforms fulfilled their promises? Have they led to the expected improvements in service delivery? And most importantly, have they been executed with integrity and in the best interest of our citizens?” he added.

The Speaker urged the committee members to be diligent, transparent, and courageous as they engage stakeholders and scrutinise records.

He noted that the outcomes of the investigation should align with global trends in sustainable energy and support Nigeria’s commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7.

Chairman of the Ad-Hoc Committee, Arch. Ibrahim Almustapha Aliyu, said the panel has been mandated to audit and investigate the reforms and expenditures in the sector from 2007 to 2024.

 

He said the sector’s history has been characterised by “ambitious goals, substantial investments, and persistent challenges,” which make the probe necessary.

Aliyu assured that the committee would work with all relevant stakeholders, stressing that transparency, objectivity, and diligence would guide the proceedings.