Lagos State House of Assembly Holds Public Hearing on Lagos Electrification Agency Bill

The Lagos State House of Assembly has taken a significant step towards improving the power sector by organizing a public hearing on the proposed Lagos Electrification Agency Law 2024. This move follows the recent constitutional amendment allowing states to regulate power generation, transmission, and distribution.

The bill, which aims to establish the Lagos Electricity Market and repeal the Lagos Electric Power Reform Law of 2018, has been discussed with stakeholders to make it more comprehensive. A delegation from the state Governor’s Advisory Council met with Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, emphasizing the bill’s importance.

The bill is designed to provide the Lagos Electrification Agency with the authority to license, generate, transmit, and distribute electricity, particularly to underserved areas. Deputy Speaker Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, representing Speaker Obasa, highlighted the bill’s role in ensuring a sustainable electricity supply.

Key benefits of the bill include creating a commercial and technical regulatory framework for the Lagos Electricity Market and establishing the Lagos State Electrification Agency and Electrification Fund. These measures aim to enhance electricity access and quality for all Lagosians.

Hon. Sobur Oluwa, Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Mineral Resources, stressed the bill’s potential to attract private sector investment, improve electricity reliability, and reduce costs through competition.

The Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Biodun Ogunleye, expressed optimism about the bill’s impact on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s energy revolution plans, including the introduction of renewable energy sources.

Stakeholders, including representatives from Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company and the Nigeria Electrical Engineers, emphasized the need for experienced technocrats and certified engineers to lead the proposed agency.

The public hearing marks a crucial step in Lagos State’s efforts to transform its power sector, with the bill expected to undergo further readings and refinements based on stakeholder feedback.