By Oloye Ray
The newly appointed Minister of Power, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, has assured Nigerians of accelerated reforms in the electricity sector, emphasizing that early achievements recorded since he assumed office demonstrate the government’s determination to improve power supply nationwide.
Speaking shortly after his swearing-in ceremony in Abuja on Monday, Tegbe expressed gratitude to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for entrusting him with the responsibility of overseeing the country’s power sector. He promised to discharge his duties with integrity, transparency, and a strong commitment to service delivery.
The minister disclosed that immediately after his confirmation by the Senate, the Ministry of Power developed a comprehensive reform roadmap aimed at driving implementation, ensuring accountability, and achieving measurable outcomes across the electricity value chain.
READ ALSO:
- TCN Begins Maintenance of Delta Substation, Assures Consumers of Daily Power Restoration
- 2027: Opposition after money, not power, says Ebonyi APC chairman
According to him, the ministry has already engaged extensively with critical stakeholders in the sector, including the Transmission Company of Nigeria, Niger Delta Power Holding Company, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, Rural Electrification Agency, Nigerian Independent System Operator, Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Company, and the FGN Power Company.
Tegbe noted that international development partners and funding institutions have also demonstrated renewed confidence in Nigeria’s power sector reforms, indicating their willingness to provide liquidity support and technical assistance to strengthen ongoing initiatives.
Highlighting some of the sector’s recent gains, the minister announced the successful revival of the 450-megawatt Alaoji Open Cycle Power Plant in Abia State by the NDPHC after three years of inactivity. He explained that the plant is now capable of contributing up to 375 megawatts to the national grid, thereby enhancing the country’s electricity generation capacity.
He further revealed that the TCN recently energized critical transmission infrastructure at Katampe in Abuja, as well as substations in Ayede and Abeokuta, developments expected to improve grid stability and electricity supply to several communities across the country.
The minister also commended the prompt response of the TCN and the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company following the unexpected failure of a 100MVA transformer in Abuja. He noted that the agencies worked tirelessly through the night to restore power supply within 24 hours, minimizing disruptions to residents and businesses.
On consumer protection, Tegbe praised NERC for directing electricity distribution companies to compensate Band A customers affected by power supply shortfalls earlier in the year. He described the move as a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to accountability, fairness, and improved customer service within the power sector.
The minister equally lauded the management and staff of the Federal Ministry of Power and its affiliated agencies for their professionalism and dedication during the transition period. He acknowledged the contributions of private sector partners and assured them that performance, innovation, and excellence would continue to receive recognition under his leadership.
Addressing Nigerians, Tegbe appealed for patience and understanding, emphasizing that the challenges facing the power sector have accumulated over several decades and require sustained efforts to overcome.
He stressed that while he would not make unrealistic promises, Nigerians should expect steady and measurable progress.
“I will not promise what I cannot deliver, but I assure Nigerians that they will see improvements. I will continue to communicate honestly and transparently every step of the way,” he said.
Reaffirming the Federal Government’s long-term objective, the minister stated that efforts remain focused on achieving reliable, affordable, and uninterrupted electricity supply for households, businesses, and industries nationwide.
He expressed confidence that under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, ongoing reforms and strategic investments would place Nigeria’s power sector on a sustainable path toward growth, efficiency, and improved service delivery for all citizens.
