In a major move to assist public tertiary institutions, the Nigerian Federal House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to lower their electricity rates.
These institutions will now be on the Service-Based Tariff (SBT) of Band “C” or lower, which should guarantee them inexpensive electricity rates.
During the plenary on Thursday, Hon. Abubakar Hassan Fulata, who represents Jigawa State’s Birniwa/Guri/Kiri Federal constituency, introduced the motion on the floor of the house.
Leading the discussion, Fulata underlined the importance of tertiary education for both national advancement and socioeconomic development. He also mentioned that public institutions in Nigeria provide education at low costs, but students find it difficult to pay these costs, and any attempts to raise fees have encountered fierce opposition.
The Federal Government’s insufficient support of public institutions has caused challenges in their ability to operate at their best, which has caused the House to voice worry.
The recent increase in electricity rates and the ensuing blackouts have disrupted operations, endangering critical equipment and jeopardizing the safety of employees and students.
Institution closures and disruptions in academic activity have resulted from student unrest sparked by the inability to use important learning resources. He emphasized that if academic operations are suspended indefinitely, student annoyance may worsen, which could have unstable and socioeconomic repercussions.
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As per Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution, the House acknowledges that the government’s principal duty is to protect the safety and well-being of its citizens. Furthermore, the Federal Government is required to offer adequate and equitable educational opportunities at all levels under Section 18 (1).
The proposal calls for the immediate return of authority to the disrupted public tertiary institutions. to protect students’ and employees’ safety and well-being and to permit the continuation of academic activities.
Relevant stakeholders will be consulted by the Committees on Power, Tertiary Education, and Services to guarantee compliance. For more legislative action, they must report back to the House in four weeks.
The resolution passed by the House attempts to stop public organizations from increasing fees in order to cover the growing cost of electricity. Students may respond violently to this, which could jeopardize the peace and stability of the country.
By doing this, the House of Representatives shows that it is committed to promoting higher education and making sure that public institutions have access to reasonably priced electricity.
As a result of the action, public tertiary institutions should be able to operate more efficiently and offer students high-quality education.
