RismadarVoice Reporters, April 15, 2026
Senator Aniekan Bassey, representing Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District, has called for strengthened legislative oversight and improved institutional integrity as key strategies for tackling corruption in Nigeria’s electricity sector.
The lawmaker made the call during a two-day retreat themed “Combating Corruption in the Electricity Sector: Strengthening Legislative Oversight and Regulatory Integrity,” held from April 13 to 14, 2026.
The retreat was organized by the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, chaired by Senator Emmanuel Udende, in collaboration with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
The event brought together key stakeholders, including Senators Kelvin Chukwu and Titus Zam, as well as the NERC Deputy General Manager (Legal, Licensing and Compliance), Hauwa Yakubu, among others.
Speaking during a session, Senator Bassey stressed that meaningful and sustainable reforms in the electricity sector go beyond the passage of laws, noting that effective implementation must be anchored on transparency, accountability, and strong institutional frameworks.
He emphasized the need for closer synergy between the National Assembly and regulatory bodies such as NERC to address systemic loopholes that enable corrupt practices within the sector.
According to him, legislative oversight must be proactive rather than reactive, with preventive mechanisms put in place to safeguard public resources, protect consumers, and boost investor confidence.
“Tackling corruption in the electricity sector requires a culture of accountability at all levels, supported by clear policies, independent monitoring, and active citizen engagement,” he stated.
Senator Bassey reaffirmed his commitment to supporting legislative actions that promote transparency, efficiency, and fairness across Nigeria’s electricity value chain.
