Minister Adebayo Adelabu has reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to providing Nigerians with a consistent and uninterrupted power supply before the end of his presidential term. This renewed pledge addresses the growing public clamor for a stable power supply, a crucial issue that has plagued the nation for decades and one which President Tinubu himself highlighted during his campaign, staking his re-election bid on its successful resolution. Adelabu’s assurance underscores the administration’s recognition of electricity as not just a basic utility, but a fundamental driver of economic growth, job creation, and overall national development.
The Minister’s pronouncements, delivered during the unveiling of the Kwaru 1X15 MVA 33/11KV Injection Substation in Lagos, emphasized the government’s multi-faceted approach to tackling the persistent power challenges. This strategy encompasses improvements across the entire power value chain – generation, transmission, and distribution. The new substation, serving communities like Abaranje, Isijola, and Igando Road, exemplifies the targeted investments being made to strengthen distribution networks and enhance electricity access at the local level. Beyond its immediate impact on these communities, the substation symbolizes the administration’s broader objective: to stimulate economic activities, empower small and medium-sized enterprises, and create new employment opportunities by providing reliable power infrastructure.
Adelabu highlighted several key accomplishments under the Renewed Hope Agenda, including the landmark Electricity Act 2023, which has ushered in a new era of decentralization and liberalization within the power sector. This transformative legislation has facilitated the emergence of twelve state electricity markets, fostering competition and promoting greater efficiency. Furthermore, after a 24-year hiatus, the development of a National Integrated Electricity Policy provides a comprehensive framework for the sector’s sustainable growth and development. These initiatives, coupled with a focus on full commercialization, have contributed to a significant increase in sector revenue, reflecting the growing confidence in the government’s reform agenda.
The administration’s efforts have also yielded tangible results in terms of attracting foreign investment and expanding generation capacity. Adelabu noted the influx of over $2 billion in fresh capital, driving the expansion of electricity access across the country. Moreover, Nigeria’s installed generation capacity has increased from 13GW to 14GW, with record-breaking peak generation and daily energy output achieved in 2025. These advancements demonstrate the positive impact of the government’s policies in bolstering the nation’s power infrastructure.
Despite these considerable achievements, Adelabu acknowledged persistent challenges, particularly within the distribution segment of the power sector. He pointed to issues such as high loss levels exceeding regulatory limits, inadequate market remittances, and continued customer complaints about service disruptions. These challenges underscore the complex nature of the power sector’s transformation and the need for continued vigilance and reform. Adelabu reaffirmed the Ministry of Power’s commitment to collaborating with Distribution Companies (DisCos) to address these issues and ensure energy security for all Nigerians.
The completion of the Kwaru substation within a 12-month timeframe, spearheaded by Ikeja Electric, one of Nigeria’s leading DisCos, was commended by the Minister. This achievement serves as a testament to the potential for effective public-private partnerships in driving infrastructure development and improving service delivery. The Minister’s acknowledgment of Ikeja Electric’s performance also highlights the importance of recognizing and encouraging best practices within the sector, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability in the pursuit of a stable and efficient power supply for all Nigerians. Ultimately, the Minister’s assurance underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling its promise of providing uninterrupted electricity, a vital step towards achieving the nation’s socio-economic aspirations.
