A bill for an act to criminalise the importation, selling and usage of generators in Nigeria scaled the first reading on the floor of the Senate on Wednesday.

The bill, titled “a bill for an Act to prohibit/ban the importation of generating sets to curb the menace of environmental (air) pollution and to facilitate the development of the power sector,” was read for the first time on Wednesday.

The bill is sponsored by Senator Birma Enagi representing Niger South of Niger State.

It prescribes 10 year-jail term for importers and sellers of generators.

The bill further directs “all persons to stop the use of electricity generating sets which run on diesel/petrol/kerosene of all capacities with immediate effect, in the country.”

The bill seeks to ban the importation and use of generating sets (generators) in the country and to curb the menace of environmental pollution which leads to potential health hazards it poses to the whole nation.

The bill however excluded importers and sellers of generators meant to power essential services.

The exemption includes generators meant to serve medical purposes in hospitals and nursing homes and healthcare facilities.

Airports, railway stations, elevators, escalators, research institutions, and such facilities that require 24-hours electric power supply are also exempted.

“Approval for exclusion shall, however, be obtained from the Minister in charge of Power, who shall brief the Federal Executive Council quarterly on approvals granted.”the document read.

The introduction of the bill comes months after the Senate rejected a resolution to temporarily ban the importation of generators.