Gov Alia Signs Benue Electricity Law, Opens Door to Power Sector Reform

Benue State has taken a major step towards transforming its power sector following Governor Hyacinth Alia's signing of the Benue State Electricity Bill 2026 into law, a move expected to expand electricity access, stimulate investment and accelerate economic growth across the state.

The legislation positions Benue among the growing number of states seeking to leverage recent constitutional and regulatory reforms that allow sub-national governments to play a more active role in electricity generation, transmission and distribution.

Governor Alia described the development as a landmark achievement capable of unlocking new economic opportunities and improving the quality of life for millions of residents.

Speaking after signing the bill, the governor said the law establishes a legal framework that will enable Benue to attract private investment into the electricity sector while expanding access to reliable and affordable power. According to him, the legislation is designed to support increased generation, transmission and distribution of electricity across the state.

He noted that improved electricity infrastructure would benefit households, businesses, hospitals, schools and industries that have long struggled with unreliable power supply.

The governor stressed that a stable electricity supply remains one of the most important requirements for economic development and industrialisation. He expressed confidence that the law would encourage investors to establish factories, processing plants and other commercial ventures in the state.

The anticipated increase in business activity, he said, could create thousands of jobs, particularly for young people. Economic experts have repeatedly identified inadequate electricity supply as one of the major obstacles to industrial growth across Nigeria.

Governor Alia also highlighted the financial burden imposed on businesses by dependence on generators and alternative power sources. With improved electricity supply, he said, entrepreneurs and companies would be able to reduce operating costs significantly. Lower energy costs are expected to improve competitiveness, support business expansion and encourage the establishment of new enterprises.

Beyond power generation and distribution, the legislation includes provisions aimed at protecting electricity consumers, the governor said the law promotes fair billing practices, improved service delivery standards and greater accountability among electricity providers.

Residents are also expected to benefit from clearer dispute-resolution mechanisms and stronger regulatory oversight.

A major feature of the legislation is its emphasis on rural electrification as many communities across Benue still lack adequate access to electricity, limiting economic activities and social development.

The governor said the new framework would support efforts to extend power infrastructure to underserved areas, thereby improving healthcare delivery, educational outcomes, agricultural processing and security.