The Yobe State Government, under the leadership of Governor Mai Mala Buni, has initiated plans to establish a Rural Electrification Commission as part of efforts to ensure sustainable and reliable electricity supply across the state.
The move followed the commencement of legislative processes by the Yobe State House of Assembly to repeal and re-enact the law establishing the commission. The executive-sponsored bill received accelerated consideration and passed its second reading after extensive deliberations on the floor of the House.
Leading the debate, the Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Nasiru Hassan Yusuf, described the proposed commission as a critical intervention that would fast-track socio-economic development and improve the living standards of residents, particularly in rural communities.
He said the commission would provide a strong framework for deploying renewable energy solutions such as solar mini-grids, wind and biomass systems to guarantee affordable, reliable and sustainable electricity supply across Yobe State.
Hon. Yusuf urged lawmakers to support the bill, noting that improved rural electrification would enhance social service delivery, stimulate local economies and boost the state’s internally generated revenue.
Other lawmakers, including Hon. Mohammed Isa Bello (Mamudo), Hon. Adamu Dala Dogo (Karasuwa), Hon. Bulama Bukar (Damagum) and Hon. Digma Maina Gana (Gujba), also spoke in favour of the bill, describing it as timely and necessary given the persistent power challenges facing many rural communities.
Presiding over the plenary, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Chiroma Buba Mashio, subsequently referred the bill to the House Standing Committee on Transport and Energy for further legislative consideration.
