Minister warns Nigerians against engaging unlicensed electrical personnel

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has issued a strong recommendation for Nigerians to seek the services of licensed electrical professionals and certified contractors for electrical work. He emphasized that this practice is crucial to preventing electrical accidents and addressing potential risks to public safety and infrastructure.

Adelabu made this statement during the two-day Electricity Supply Industry Safety Conference 2024, organized by the House of Representatives Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations in partnership with the Association for Public Policy Analysis, held in Abuja on Thursday. Represented by Aliyu Tahir, Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA), he highlighted the importance of this caution to reduce the frequency of electrical incidents and related hazards.

He noted, “Safety should not just be a priority; it must be a fundamental value. We must prioritize the well-being of our colleagues, customers, and the community. Our industry operates under strict regulations and standards, which are not optional but mandatory.”

Adelabu pointed out that while electricity is vital for human life and economic growth, it also comes with risks. He stressed that improper planning, execution, maintenance, and use of electrical systems can lead to serious injuries and equipment failures.

“Compliance with technical standards and specifications in the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of electrical systems is essential for their effective and safe use,” he added. He mentioned that one of NEMSA’s key roles is to certify electrical installation practitioners, ensuring they possess the necessary skills and qualifications before undertaking any electrical work in the country.

He further explained that certified personnel must use quality materials and adhere to approved standards throughout the installation and maintenance processes. All electrical work must undergo statutory inspection, testing, and certification by NEMSA before being utilized.

Last year, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu enacted the Electricity Act of 2023, which establishes legal frameworks for enforcing technical and safety standards, as well as for inspection, testing, and certification across the entire power value chain, including generation, transmission, and distribution.

The minister underscored that these regulations aim to guide the planning, design, construction, maintenance, and use of electrical supply systems. He emphasized that enforcing technical standards and regulations is vital for ensuring quality, reliability, and safety in the power sector, which will help reduce electrical accidents and electrocutions.

Adelabu pointed out that adherence to safety standards and technical regulations can significantly decrease the incidence of electrical accidents in the sector. He also stressed the importance of regular updates to safety protocols, thorough inspections, adequate training, and a strong safety culture among all stakeholders.

The conference aimed to enhance safety measures in the electricity sector and was attended by various dignitaries, including the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, and other prominent figures in the National Assembly and the power industry.