The House of Representatives Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations is actively working to establish stricter safety protocols to tackle the ongoing issues within Nigeria’s electricity sector.
At a press briefing held in Abuja on Tuesday, the committee Chairman, Dr. Sulaiman Gumi, emphasized the critical role these standards play in protecting both lives and property. This briefing served as an introduction to the upcoming Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry Safety Conference 2024, and highlighted the committee’s duty to ensure robust implementation of laws and regulations aimed at enhancing safety within the industry.
Dr. Gumi noted that the electricity sector has been identified as a high-priority area due to persistent safety violations, including acts of vandalism, theft, and the utilization of substandard materials. These issues have not only resulted in considerable financial losses but have also led to numerous electrical accidents and fatalities.
He expressed particular concern over non-compliance with safety regulations, especially regarding the installation of electrical systems by unlicensed individuals and the spread of inferior quality materials.
Dr. Gumi also underscored the importance of the legal framework supporting safety in the industry, highlighting the Electricity Act 2023 as a key component in addressing these challenges and ensuring a safer electricity supply system.
