The Gombe State government has adopted the State Electricity Law 2024 to gain autonomy over electricity generation, transmission, and distribution within its territory, marking a significant step toward energy self-sufficiency.
Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Alhaji Sunusi Ahmed, announced the development in response to a nationwide survey highlighting delays by states in domesticating federal laws. He explained that the new law provides Gombe with full legal authority to independently manage its electricity market.
The move aligns with the provisions of the federal Electricity Act 2023, which repealed the 2005 Power Sector Reform Act and decentralised the electricity sector. Under the Act, states can now issue licences to private investors for mini-grids and power plants operating within state borders—excluding interstate or cross-border electricity distribution.
Ahmed revealed that Gombe is in the process of setting up a regulatory body to oversee the state’s power market. “Once the regulatory framework is in place, we shall formally notify the National Electricity Commission to assert our autonomy in line with the new legal provisions,” he said.
He also highlighted ongoing progress on the Balanga Dam Power Project, which is designed to produce 320 kilowatts of electricity. The project is co-funded by the state government and development partners including the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and the European Union. Gombe has committed N575 million, representing 30 percent of the project cost.
“Though we’re facing some technical and regulatory hurdles, we remain focused on delivering the Balanga project, which is expected to significantly improve energy access across the state,” Ahmed noted.
Beyond enhancing power supply, the project aims to stimulate job creation, increase internally generated revenue, strengthen security, and boost rural electrification.
“This is more than just a power initiative—it is a pathway to economic empowerment, industrial growth, and a brighter future for our people,” Ahmed added.