The immediate past Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has called for sustained commitment and continuity in ongoing reforms in the power sector to ensure policy consistency.
Adelabu made the call in a statement issued by his Senior Special Advisor on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, Mr Bolaji Tunji, in Abuja.
He spoke on Thursday during the formal handover of the ministry to the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Mamudah Mamman.
Adelabu said that while some of the reforms may appear unpopular, they were necessary to guarantee stable, efficient, and affordable electricity supply for Nigerians.
He noted that years of inadequate attention by successive governments contributed to the sector’s challenges, and addressing them requires deliberate and strategic planning.
“These reforms were pursued during my two years and eight months in office,” he said.
He stressed that sustaining the reforms would require courage from both technocrats and political leaders to place the power sector value chain on a sound footing.
“These reforms are a journey, not an immediate destination. If the process is disrupted, it could derail progress. Civil servants and technocrats must, therefore, guide the incoming leadership to sustain and build on what has been achieved,” he said.
Adelabu likened the reform process to laying a foundation on swampy terrain, explaining that while initial efforts may not be immediately visible, they are critical to long-term success.
“Our achievements may not yet be obvious to Nigerians, but as the next leadership builds on them, their impact will become clear,” he said.
The former minister highlighted key milestones, including the signing of the Electricity Act 2023, which decentralised and liberalised the sector, enabling sub-national participation.
He noted that 16 states have already keyed into the evolving power market, with increased private sector involvement through Generation Companies (GenCos) and Distribution Companies (DisCos).
However, Adelabu expressed concern that DisCos had largely failed to meet their investment obligations since the 2013 privatisation. He urged the government to critically review their licences when due.
He defended the introduction of the Cost Reflective Tariff (CRT), acknowledging its initial resistance but stressing that it is essential for the sector’s sustainability.
“Reforms are often unpopular, but we must move beyond the status quo if we are to develop as a nation,” he said.
Adelabu said he carried out his duties with a clear conscience and in the national interest. He added that he resigned with the approval of President Bola Tinubu to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State.
He recalled a similar move in 2019 when he resigned as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to contest the same position.
“My commitment to the welfare and development of my people remains strong. This ambition is not a do-or-die affair, but I am confident that this time, we will succeed,” he said.
Adelabu charged top civil servants to ensure the incoming minister builds on the existing foundation in line with President Tinubu’s vision of delivering reliable power.
The Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Mr Musiliu Oseni, and the Managing Director of the Nigeria Independent System Operator (NISO), Mohammed Bello, commended Adelabu’s courage in confronting long-standing challenges in the sector.
They particularly praised him for implementing the Cost Reflective Tariff, which previous administrations had avoided.
