Federal Minister of Power, Godwin Olusegun Adelabu, met President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa on Tuesday to submit a comprehensive report covering his two‑and‑a‑half‑year tenure and to tender his resignation from the cabinet.
In the briefing, Adelabu outlined the initiatives undertaken since his appointment in August 2023, including the revitalisation of the national electricity grid, the rollout of renewable‑energy projects and the restructuring of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN). He indicated that, after evaluating the progress and persistent challenges, he believed a change in leadership was necessary to sustain momentum in the sector.
Ministerial Report and Reasons for Resignation
The report presented to President Tinubu detailed the achievements and setbacks of the Ministry of Power. Among the successes highlighted were the commissioning of three new gas‑fired power plants, the expansion of the Transmission Company of Nigeria’s (TCN) high‑voltage network by 1,200 kilometres, and the initiation of a $2.5 billion solar‑energy programme in collaboration with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). Adelabu also noted that the ministry had secured ₦150 billion in private‑sector financing for off‑grid electrification projects targeting rural communities.
Conversely, the document identified ongoing obstacles, such as chronic fuel shortages, delays in the disbursement of allocated funds, and persistent tariff disputes between generation companies and distribution firms. Adelabu argued that these systemic issues required fresh strategic direction, prompting his decision to step down. He emphasized that the resignation was voluntary and aimed at facilitating a seamless transition for his successor.
Government Response and Future Outlook
President Tinubu received the resignation with appreciation for Adelabu’s contributions. In a statement released later on Tuesday, the President said, “The Ministry of Power has made commendable strides under Minister Adelabu’s stewardship, and his decision to resign will be respected. The administration remains committed to achieving universal electricity access and will appoint a qualified successor without delay.”
Political analysts noted that the timing of the resignation coincided with the federal government’s upcoming mid‑term review of the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) and the imminent passage of the Electricity Reform Bill in the National Assembly. They suggested that the change could be intended to align the ministry’s leadership with the new legislative framework, which seeks to introduce greater private‑sector participation and improve regulatory oversight.
Opposition leaders, however, called for a thorough examination of the ministry’s performance. Senator Umar Ibrahim of the Peoples Democratic Party remarked, “While we acknowledge the progress made, it is essential that the next minister addresses the persistent supply gaps that still affect millions of Nigerians.” Civil‑society groups, including the Nigerian Electricity Consumers Association, urged the government to accelerate the rollout of renewable‑energy solutions and to ensure that any transition does not disrupt ongoing projects.
In the weeks ahead, the Presidency is expected to announce the appointment of a new Minister of Power. The successor will inherit a portfolio undergoing significant reforms, with the dual mandate of stabilising supply and expanding access. Stakeholders anticipate that the incoming minister will prioritize the implementation of the Electricity Reform Bill, enhance the financial viability of distribution companies, and foster greater investment in clean‑energy technologies.
The resignation of Minister Adelabu marks a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s power sector, underscoring both the progress achieved and the challenges that remain. As the government prepares for a leadership change, the sector’s trajectory will depend on the ability of the new minister to build on existing initiatives, address systemic bottlenecks and deliver reliable electricity to households and businesses across the nation.
