LIVE UPDATES
Oyo State has begun processes to generate and distribute electricity within the state, as its Governor, Seyi Makinde, signed the State Electricity Regulatory Commission Bill 2024 into law.
On Friday, Gov. Makinde took a significant step, marking a milestone in the state's quest for sustainable electricity solutions.
During a ceremony in Ibadan, the governor highlighted the importance of the newly enacted law, stressing its role in providing the state with the opportunity to chart its course toward sustainable electricity generation, transmission, and distribution.
“This law will enable Oyo State to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity within the state," stated Governor Makinde.
He underscored the significance of decentralizing electricity infrastructure, asserting that greater autonomy at the state level is crucial for delivering democratic dividends to Nigerians.
Furthermore, Governor Makinde emphasized the need for constitutional amendments to facilitate fiscal federalism, enabling states to take greater responsibility for issues such as electricity supply.
He expressed confidence that as the state moves towards energy sufficiency, it will empower citizens to hold their respective state governments accountable for matters related to electricity provision.
Furthermore, the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mohammed Fadeyi, added that signing the bill into law would mark the first independent electricity project undertaken by the state, signifying a significant milestone in Oyo's journey towards energy self-sufficiency.
Key government officials, including Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, Chief of Staff to the Governor Segun Ogunwuyi, Head of Service Olubunmi Oni, and Commissioner for Energy Temilolu Ashamu, among others, were in attendance.
