Power Minister Tegbe Unveils Reform Agenda, Promises Accountability and Improved Electricity Supply

 Power Minister Tegbe Unveils Reform Agenda, Promises Accountability and Improved Electricity Supply

Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, has pledged to drive comprehensive reforms in the electricity sector with a focus on accountability, operational efficiency, and improved power supply, assuring Nigerians that visible progress will be achieved through disciplined execution and transparent governance.

Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, has pledged to serve the nation with honesty, diligence, and a clear commitment to transforming the power sector through structured reforms anchored on discipline, measurable milestones, and public accountability.

Tegbe, who expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for entrusting him with the portfolio, disclosed that his team commenced work immediately after his confirmation by the Senate. He noted that extensive consultations have already been held with key agencies and stakeholders across the electricity value chain.

According to the Minister, engagements have taken place with the Federal Ministry of Power, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Rural Electrification Agency (REA), FGN Power Holding Company, and other critical operators in the sector.

He said the agencies are aligned with the administration’s reform agenda and prepared to deliver results. Tegbe also revealed that discussions with international development organisations and funding partners have produced encouraging outcomes, with several partners indicating their readiness to provide liquidity support for the sector.

Highlighting early achievements, the Minister disclosed that the 450-megawatt Alaoji Open Cycle Power Plant in Abia State, which had remained inactive for three years, has been revived by NDPHC and now has up to 375 megawatts available for dispatch to the national grid.

He further noted that TCN recently energized new transmission infrastructure at Katampe in Abuja, as well as substations in Ayede and Abeokuta, a development expected to strengthen electricity transmission capacity across several regions of the country.

On consumer protection, Tegbe pointed to NERC’s directive requiring electricity distribution companies to compensate Band A customers for service shortfalls recorded earlier in the year. He described the move as a strong indication of the government's commitment to protecting consumers while ensuring operators remain accountable for service delivery.

The Minister also cited the swift restoration of electricity supply in Abuja following the unexpected failure of a 100MVA transformer, commending the coordinated efforts of TCN and Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), which restored service within 24 hours.

Tegbe praised the management and staff of the Federal Ministry of Power and its agencies for what he described as renewed dedication and professionalism. He also acknowledged the support of private sector partners, assuring them that excellence, productivity, and innovation would be recognised and rewarded under his leadership.

While appealing for patience from Nigerians, the Minister emphasized that the long-standing challenges confronting the power sector cannot be resolved overnight. He reiterated the commitment he made during his Senate screening, stressing that he would not make unrealistic promises but would ensure continuous progress and transparent communication with the public.

According to Tegbe, Nigerians should expect gradual but measurable improvements in electricity supply as the government intensifies efforts to reposition the sector for sustainable growth and reliable service delivery.