Newly appointed Nigerian Minister of Power, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, has pledged a reform-driven approach to Nigeria’s electricity sector, saying his administration will focus on discipline, measurable targets, and accountability in service delivery.
Speaking in Abuja shortly after assuming office, Tegbe thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment and said his team had already commenced work following his Senate confirmation, engaging key stakeholders across the sector.
He disclosed that consultations have been held with major power sector institutions, including the Ministry of Power, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), and the FGN Power Holding Company, among others. According to him, the engagements have helped align stakeholders on a unified reform agenda.
Tegbe also noted that discussions with international development partners and funding institutions had yielded positive signals, with indications of possible liquidity support to strengthen the sector.
On operational updates, the minister said preliminary improvements were already being recorded on the national grid. He cited the revival of the 450-megawatt Alaoji Open Cycle Power Plant in Abia State, which had been out of service for three years, adding that about 375 megawatts is now available for dispatch.
He further highlighted recent transmission upgrades, including the energisation of new assets by TCN at Katampe in Abuja, as well as substations in Ayede and Abeokuta, describing them as efforts to improve grid stability and regional capacity.
On consumer protection, Tegbe referenced a recent directive by NERC mandating electricity distribution companies to compensate Band A customers affected by supply shortfalls earlier in the year. He described the move as a strong indication of regulatory accountability in the sector.
He also commended the rapid restoration of power in parts of Abuja following the failure of a 100MVA transformer, noting that TCN and the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company responded within 24 hours to restore supply.
The minister praised staff of the Ministry of Power and all sector agencies for what he called renewed commitment and professionalism, while also acknowledging the support of private sector partners.
Tegbe urged Nigerians to remain patient, saying reforms in the power sector would take time to yield full results due to longstanding structural challenges. He, however, assured that improvements would be visible and communication with the public would remain transparent under his leadership.