By Umar Akilu Majeri Dutse
Governor Malam Umar Namadi on Monday signed into law the long-awaited Jigawa State Electricity Regulatory Commission Bill.
The legislation, which was passed by the State House of Assembly, establishes a dedicated regulatory body to oversee electricity generation, transmission, distribution, and supply within the state.
The signing ceremony took place at the Council Chambers of the Government House, with key stakeholders in attendance.
Governor Namadi expressed optimism about the new law, highlighting its potential to drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for residents of Jigawa State.
“This law is a crucial step towards sustainable development and economic growth in Jigawa State. By strengthening electricity regulation and promoting innovative energy solutions, we aim to create a more reliable and inclusive energy ecosystem for our people,” Governor Namadi stated during the event.
The new law forms part of the state government’s broader efforts to address Jigawa’s energy needs. It seeks to create an enabling environment for both public and private sector participation in the energy sector.
In addition to fostering collaboration, the legislation supports the integration of diverse energy solutions, including grid, mini-grid, and off-grid systems.
Governor Namadi also reiterated his administration’s commitment to tackling Jigawa’s energy challenges, which he described as central to the state’s economic and infrastructural development.
He noted that the newly created Ministry of Power and Renewable Energy would play a key role in ensuring the successful implementation of the law, with Dr. Sirajo Musa serving as the inaugural commissioner of the ministry.
“This is the first time in the history of Jigawa that the Ministry of Power and Renewable Energy has been established. Together with this new law, it will lay the foundation for our state’s energy future,” Namadi added.
The establishment of the Jigawa State Electricity Regulatory Commission represents a significant step in the state’s journey towards sustainable power solutions.
Governor Namadi also reiterated his administration’s commitment to addressing the state’s energy needs, describing it as essential to the development of Jigawa State.
“It is vital for the future of Jigawa that we address the energy challenges we face. This law is a key step towards sustainable development and economic growth in our state,” he concluded.
Earlier this year, the Namadi administration created the Ministry of Power and Renewable Energy for the first time in Jigawa’s history, with Dr. Sirajo Musa appointed as the ministry’s pioneer commissioner.
At that time, the governor also hinted at the establishment of a new regulatory body to oversee the distribution and transmission of electricity within the state, which has now been formalised with the signing of this law.