Adelabu, Minister of Power, unveils 5-point agenda, sets to leverage stakeholders’ partnership, ICT, new electricity act

Oredola Adeola

Chief Adebayo Adelabu, Minister of Power, has outlined his vision for the Ministry of Power, which is rooted in leveraging the Nigerian Electricity Act of 2023, the power of technology, robust handshakes between the ICT apparatus of the Ministry of Power, the emerging technological ideas of young Nigerians, and robust partnerships between the private and public sectors.

Adelabu made this known in his inaugural address themed: Powering Nigeria’s Future Together, while rolling out his agenda for the power sector.

According to him, as the custodians of the Ministry of Power, my priority is to provide optimal solutions for Nigeria’s power needs across the nation.

He said, “This task is not merely a requirement but an expectation from our President and the Nigerian populace, who have endured years of power challenges.

“This responsibility weighs heavily upon us, and it is with conviction, divine guidance and the support of President Tinubu, the National Assembly, government agencies, and every Nigerian citizen that I pledge my commitment to achieving success in Nigeria’s power sector.

The key visions and focus of the new Minister of Power in Nigeria, are as follows:

Leveraging the Nigerian Electricity Act of 2023

Universal metering of households

Adelabu therefore noted that his vision for the Ministry of Power is rooted in leveraging the Nigerian Electricity Act of 2023, which according to him, has opened new avenues for power provision and encourages collaboration between the public and private sectors.

He also promised to build upon the foundation laid by former Ministers of Power and to diligently work towards meeting the energy needs of Nigerians.

The Power Minister said, “Our aim is to empower Nigeria through reliable and accessible power, ensuring that every home, industry, school, and business benefits from our efforts. Key to our success will be an unwavering dedication to efficiency and collaboration.

Speaking about the plan to work with all the stakeholders in the power sector, Adelabu emphasised that he is committed to fostering robust partnerships between the private and public sectors.

This partnership, according to him, will collectively focus on enhancing Nigeria’s economic and social well-being.

He further revealed that the focus of the Power Ministry will extend to households, small businesses, educational institutions, massive industrial productions, and other aspects of life that truly matter.

Adelabu also promised that a significant goal of his Ministry is the universal metering of households as well as addressing the challenges that the national power grid faces.

Speaking about his plan for the renewable energy sector, the Power Minister promised to equally pay critical attention to the options of renewable and alternative energies.

He said, “The world is indeed going in this direction, and Nigeria must not be left behind. As much as possible, we would leverage the power of technology and the bursting energies of our talented youths to achieve our desired objectives.

“This would be pursued by ensuring robust handshakes between the Ministry’s ICT apparatus and the emerging technological ideas of young Nigerians to accelerate the envisaged transformation.

“Through this, we are convinced we will deliver services that would match the speed and values that the 21st-century economy demands.

Nigeria’s Power Minister, therefore, expressed gratitude to the individuals who have served and continue to serve the Ministry of Power as they work towards their objectives.

He commended the efforts of past Honourable Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, Directors, and the entire civil and public service.

However, Adelabu acknowledged that there is still much to accomplish and called on fellow citizens to stand by his side as they strive for tangible progress in Nigeria’s power sector.

He emphasized the need to move from political discussions to action and urged everyone to contribute their talents and energies toward a brighter future.

Adelabu therefore expressed confidence that under President Tinubu’s administration, Nigeria will thrive with sincerity and Divine guidance.