Yobe: Some key stakeholders in the North-East have confirmed how the Federal Government’s reforms are yielding results in Yobe, leaving Adamawa and Borno far behind. A survey conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in the states has clearly shown how Yobe took bold steps by domesticating the 2024 Electricity Act to adopt renewable energy solutions in addressing its power challenges.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Alhaji Mohammed Bara, Yobe’s Commissioner for Transport and Energy, said the state had sponsored a bill on energy development which was passed by the state assembly on July 16 and is currently awaiting the assent of Gov. Mai Mala Buni. Bara emphasized that with the passage of the bill by the House, Yobe State is now on track to operationalize its own electricity policy and regulatory framework. This new legal framework is expected to expand access to energy, explore off-grid and renewable solutions, and attract investments.
The commissioner further stated that once the law is signed by the governor, Yobe will be legally enabled to collaborate with federal agencies and private investors in generating and distributing power. This legal instrument is seen as a requirement for development partners, positioning Yobe to benefit from national and international energy interventions.
Bara also revealed that the ministry has concluded arrangements to sign a partnership with VEMTEC Global Nigeria Ltd., an energy consultancy firm, to facilitate access to a renewable energy grant from the World Bank, through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA). The planned partnership aims to support the deployment of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems across critical public institutions, including general hospitals and tertiary facilities in the state.
Meanwhile, stakeholders in Adamawa have expressed concerns over the slow domestication and enforcement of the Child Rights Act, among other legislative issues. Mrs. Kate Mamuno, Majority Leader of the Adamawa House of Assembly, reaffirmed the assembly’s commitment to domesticating all applicable national laws. She mentioned that the assembly has already domesticated key legislations, including the VAPP Act, Child Protection Law, and the Administration of Criminal Justice Law.
Mamuno highlighted the Disability Law, which prohibits discrimination and provides for the establishment of a commission to promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities. She also mentioned the state’s commitment to child protection and welfare, and the ongoing implementation of various programs aligned with the Child Protection Law.
On the other hand, Mrs. Jamila Babuba, Chairperson of the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) in Adamawa, identified the slow domestication and enforcement of the Child Rights Act as a major setback to child protection. Babuba acknowledged the progress made with the VAPP Act but pointed out challenges in service delivery and the need for better funding and awareness.
In Borno, similar issues persist as some key constitutional reforms remain largely unimplemented. Mr. Abdulkareem Lawan, Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, expressed opposition to proposals for state police or the creation of additional states and local councils, citing existing financial constraints and reliance on the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) for security.