Wednesday November 12, 2025 | A bill to amend the Electricity Act scaled second reading on Wednesday. Sponsored by Hon. Victor Obuzor, the proposed amendment will provide for effective development and regulation of Nuclear Energy Programmes in Nigeria.
The Bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to Amend the Electricity Act, 2023, to Provide for Effective Development and Regulation of Nuclear Energy Programmes in Nigeria and for Related Matters (HB.2138),” received its first reading on March 12, 2025.
The proposed amendment highlights the adoption of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as a cost-effective, scalable, and flexible solution to Nigeria’s electricity generation needs. By broadening the objectives of the Electricity Act, the Bill introduces new provisions under Section 5(2) to:
- Promote the development of nuclear energy for electricity generation, including SMRs;
- Strengthen the oversight and regulatory role of the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority in compliance with the Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection Act, while supporting research and dissemination of nuclear technologies;
- Prepare and implement an approved roadmap for Nigeria’s nuclear power programme;
- Collaborate with relevant government agencies to develop a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework for nuclear energy;
- Identify suitable sites for nuclear power plants and required infrastructure;
- Foster partnerships with other countries and international organisations in nuclear energy research and development.
- Additionally, the Bill seeks to amend Section 232 of the Act, expanding the definition of “energy sources” to include nuclear, hydro, solar, and other renewable or alternative sources approved by the Ministry of Power.
Leading the debate on the House floor, Hon. Victor Obuzor expressed optimism that passage of the Bill would enable Nigeria to harness nuclear energy responsibly and significantly enhance the nation’s electricity generation capacity.
The Bill has been referred to the House Committee on Renewable Energy and Power for further legislative consideration.
