Abia State House of Assembly Passes Electricity Law to Boost Power Supply
The Abia State House of Assembly has passed the Abia State Electricity Law, a landmark legislation aimed at regulating electricity provision and increasing power supply in the state. The bill was passed during a plenary session presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Augustine Okezie.
Additionally, the House introduced two new bills for first reading:
1. Abia State Road Traffic and Safety Management Bill
2. Abia State Lotteries and Gaming Authority Bill
Both bills were sponsored by Hon. Anthony Chinasa.
Electricity Law to Improve Power Supply and Attract Investors
Speaking with us, Deputy Speaker Augustine Okezie described the passage of the Abia State Electricity Law as a major step towards improving electricity provision in the state.
Abia State has, by this law, started a bold move to ensure that electricity users in the state get real value for their money. This law will give birth to the formation of a regulatory commission,Okezie said
Increase electricity supply hours for businesses and residents
Regulate electricity usage across the state
Attract investors into Abia electricity sector
Enhance economic growth by improving power availability
We hope to see an influx of investors into the electricity sector in the state, leading to improved electricity provision and a positive impact on the state economy,Okezie explained.
Another important development at the plenary session was the first reading of the Abia State Lotteries and Gaming Authority Bill, which seeks to regulate betting and gaming activities in the state.
Addressing concerns about the potential negative impact on Abia youth, Deputy Speaker Okezie assured that the bill is designed to bring structure and accountability to the gaming industry.
We want a platform to regulate activities. Presently, we are not going to deny the reality of gaming platforms like BetNaija, BetKings, and others in the country. Our aim now is to set parameters and modules upon which these lotteries and gaming activities will take place,he said.
Control the operations of betting and gaming companies
Set guidelines to prevent exploitation and addiction
Ensure responsible gaming practices
Generate revenue for the state through taxation and licensing
Without proper regulation, we will be chasing shadows. The components of this bill will enable Abia State to take a proactive stance in curtailing excesses in this sector,okezie added.
The passage of the Abia State Electricity Law marks a bold step towards energy sector reform, while the Lotteries and Gaming Bill aims to bring accountability to the gaming industry. With improved electricity supply and structured gaming regulations, Abia State is positioning itself for economic growth and infrastructural development.
