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The National Assembly has praised Governor Alex Otti for enacting the Abia State Electricity Bill and establishing a regulatory authority responsible for power production and dissemination within Abia State.
During his weekend tour with the committee, Afam Ogene, who leads the House of Representatives' Committee on Renewable Energy, praised the governor.
Ogene stated that the significant power issues facing the country cannot be overstated, which is why emphasis is being placed on renewable energy.
He stated that the shift towards renewable energy in Nigeria is a key focus for the House of Representatives, which is why they are actively promoting this initiative.
He seized the chance to extend an invitation to Otti to join and collaborate with the National Assembly in this matter.
He stated, "Excellency, allow me to start by expressing my gratitude for consenting to this meeting. Additionally, I wish to acknowledge your signature turning the Abia State Electricity Bill into legislation. This bill highlights your emphasis on renewable energy."
You have proceeded with establishing the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Authority, indicating that progress has been made following the National Assembly’s decision to include electricity under the concurrent list. Moving forward, this will entail a collaborative approach.
This strategic method aims to promote the new technology and persuade Nigerians to embrace renewable energy solutions, thus bolstering the nation’s energy alternatives and security.
The House has made considerable progress toward enhancing renewable energy sustainability by passing a recent resolution mandating all government ministries, agencies, departments, and affiliated institutions to shift to renewable energy sources for their power needs.
To emphasize the importance of renewable energy, the Committee, along with the Office of the Speaker, plans to host a National Legislative Summit from May 5 to 7, 2025. This summit aims to shed light on the legislative and regulatory shortcomings within the sector.
Particularly, the summit seeks to foster knowledge sharing aimed at encouraging conversation between lawmakers, specialists, and participants on key legislative matters, regulatory structures, and international best practices.
Our aim is to officially update you about the forthcoming summit and invite you to join us as both a participant and a collaborator.
Ogene acknowledged the significant achievements of the governor, particularly in enhancing road infrastructure. He noted that during his visits throughout the state, various locations stand as evidence of the governor's dedication to improving Abia State.
In response, Otti expressed gratitude for the positive remarks from the committee members regarding the government and asserted that the efforts he had put forth during his 22-month tenure were precisely what the citizens required.
He stated, "It pleases me to learn of your positive encounters in Abia State, since what one hears can differ from what one actually sees."
For those familiar with the conditions here previously, we arrived resolute to change the narrative of this state. The core problem lies in recognizing the capabilities of our citizens and understanding that what they primarily need is some backing from the government.
They don't require you to provide financial assistance. The members of our community do not subscribe to receiving handouts; instead, they trust in the innate power bestowed upon them by God.
It’s simply some additional support; establish an empowering atmosphere, foster a state with assured security along with essential social infrastructures such as healthcare and education, and naturally, the robust infrastructure including roads.
Otti, who highlighted the significance of power for economic growth, praised the National Assembly for their efforts in this area.
He remarked, "However, what you're undertaking is commendable, and I back it since, ultimately, renewable energy proves more cost-effective and sustainable."
He revealed that after signing the Abia State Electricity Bill into law and establishing the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency, the state is now prepared to enhance the economy via improved power supply.
The governor was accompanied in the meeting by the esteemed Commissioner for Power, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, and theSpecial Advisor on Energy, Engr. Kachy Etolue.