Tegbe Unveils Reform Blueprint in Power Sector, Says accountability, infrastructure upgrades and consumer protection will drive electricity turnaround By Raymond Enoch

Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, has pledged a new era of accountability, transparency and measurable progress in the nation’s electricity sector, assuring Nigerians that ongoing reforms will deliver tangible improvements in power supply and service delivery.

Speaking shortly after formally assuming office following his confirmation by the Senate, Tegbe disclosed that his administration has already set in motion a comprehensive reform agenda designed to address long-standing challenges across the electricity value chain while restoring public confidence in the sector.

The minister expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the critical ministry, stressing that consultations with key stakeholders have laid the foundation for a coordinated and results-driven approach to reform.

According to him, extensive engagements have been held with major institutions, including the Transmission Company of Nigeria, Niger Delta Power Holding Company, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, the Rural Electrification Agency, and other stakeholders across the power industry.

“These discussions have produced a shared understanding of the urgent need to accelerate reforms and improve electricity delivery to Nigerians,” Tegbe stated.

In what industry observers describe as an encouraging sign for the sector, the minister revealed that talks with international development institutions and financial partners have generated positive commitments, with several organizations indicating willingness to support efforts aimed at resolving the sector’s persistent liquidity crisis.

Highlighting early achievements, Tegbe announced the successful revival of the 450-megawatt Alaoji Open Cycle Power Plant in Abia State, a facility that had reportedly remained dormant for nearly three years.

The plant, rehabilitated by NDPHC, is now capable of contributing up to 375 megawatts to the national grid, a development expected to boost generation capacity and improve electricity availability across the country.

The minister also pointed to significant progress in transmission infrastructure, citing the successful energization of new facilities at Katampe as well as substations in Ayede and Abeokuta, projects expected to strengthen grid stability and enhance power distribution to consumers.

On consumer rights and service accountability, Tegbe applauded recent regulatory measures compelling electricity distribution companies to compensate Band A customers affected by supply failures.

He described the move as a strong indication that regulatory authorities are becoming more proactive in protecting consumers while ensuring that operators meet their obligations.

The minister further referenced the rapid restoration of electricity to parts of Abuja after the unexpected failure of a 100MVA transformer, commending the swift intervention by TCN and Abuja Electricity Distribution Company teams, which restored supply within 24 hours.

Tegbe praised staff of the Ministry of Power and its agencies for their commitment and professionalism, while also acknowledging the role of private-sector investors and development partners in advancing reforms.

He assured stakeholders that under his leadership, performance, innovation and efficiency would remain central to decision-making in the sector.

While acknowledging the enormous challenges confronting the industry, the minister cautioned that decades of infrastructure deficits and systemic inefficiencies could not be eliminated overnight.

He, however, assured Nigerians that the reform process is already yielding results and that citizens would continue to receive regular updates on progress.

“I will not make unrealistic promises, but Nigerians will see steady improvements,” he said, emphasizing that collaboration among government institutions, private investors and development partners remains key to achieving a more reliable and sustainable electricity sector.

With critical projects being revived, new investments on the horizon and regulatory oversight becoming more assertive, Tegbe’s early policy direction signals what could become one of the most closely watched reform drives under the Tinubu administration as the government seeks to power economic growth through a more efficient electricity industry.