*Receives FOI Bill from Governor
From Taiye Joseph Ilorin
The Kwara State House of Assembly, has taken a major step towards revamping the power sector in the state, as lawmakers on Tuesday passed the second reading of a bill seeking to repeal outdated rural electricity laws and lay the foundation for a more robust and decentralised electricity supply system.
The bill, titled Kwara State Electric Power Sector Bill, 2025, aims to repeal the 1992 and 2006 laws that established the state’s Rural Electricity Board, and instead promote independent power generation, transmission, and distribution frameworks to boost economic development.
Leading the debate, Hon. Rukayat Shittu (Owode/Onire), described the bill as a game-changer that could transform Kwara’s energy landscape. “This bill is a bold move to position Kwara for a modern electricity sector that meets the needs of both urban and rural communities,” she said.
Contributing to the debate, several lawmakers including Hon. Magaji Abdulkadir (Ilorin Central), Hon. Ganiyu Salahu (Omupo), Hon. Mohammed Salihu (Okuta/Yashikira), Hon. Arinola Lawal (Ilorin East), Hon. Abdullahi Danbaba (Kaiama/Kemanji/Wajibe), Hon. Saba Gideon (Edu), and Hon. Bello Oniboki (Afon), all supported the bill, noting its potential to encourage private sector participation and improve electricity access across the state.
Following its second reading, the bill was referred to the House Committee on Energy for further legislative work and report presentation.
Also during the plenary, Speaker Rt. Hon. Yakubu Danladi Salihu, read a message from Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq transmitting the Kwara State Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill, 2025, to the House for consideration. The bill has been referred to the Business and Rules Committee for scheduling its first reading.
The House adjourned after a motion by Hon. Magaji Abdulkadir and seconded by Hon. Maryam Yusuf (Ilorin South).
