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Tag: Adebayo Adelabu

  • Adelabu storms Japan in bid to improve grid reliability

    Adelabu storms Japan in bid to improve grid reliability

    The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu alongside a delegation of key stakeholders in Nigeria’s power sector, recently concluded a three-day strategic visit to Japan to among other things improve reliability.

    The visit, which was to strengthen bilateral energy partnership, was facilitated by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

    The visit served as a critical platform to engage with Japanese energy leaders, policymakers, and industry experts, with a focus on enhancing Nigeria’s power infrastructure, improving grid reliability, and exploring innovative energy solutions.

    During the visit, the Minister and the Nigerian delegation engaged in high-level discussions and technical sessions, gaining insights into Japan’s energy market structure, policy frameworks, and operational models.

    The key areas of focus included: Policy and Evolution of Japan’s Power Sector.

    Thus, the delegation received a comprehensive briefing on the evolution of Japan’s power sector, its regulatory framework, and how the sector efficiently manages electricity distribution and market operations. These insights provided valuable lessons for Nigeria’s evolving power market.

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    The delegation explored Japan’s advanced electricity load dispatching mechanisms, the operational framework for generation and distribution coordination, and grid optimization strategies, which could inform best practices for Nigeria’s power sector reforms.

    Energy Trading and Market Operations was a major highlight at the meeting as Nigeria’s energy stakeholders examined Japan’s electricity supply system and power exchange market, analyzing models that could improve Nigeria’s electricity market efficiency, energy pricing mechanisms, and competitiveness.

    Adelabu and his team further engaged in high-level technical discussions to deepen Nigeria-Japan energy sector cooperation, including: a bilateral meeting with the Japanese Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry, where both parties explored opportunities to strengthen economic and energy sector collaborations.

    A strategic session with JICA leadership, where potential areas of support and collaboration were identified to accelerate power sector reforms and investment in Nigeria.

    There were technical visits to industry leaders.

  • Adelabu celebrates former Oyo APC chairman at 86

    Adelabu celebrates former Oyo APC chairman at 86

    Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu has congratulated former Oyo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Akin Oke on his 86th birthday.

    In a statement issued on Friday, the Power Minister expressed joy that Chief Oke has added another year in good health. He described Chief Oke as an icon of democratic ideals.

    “I am especially happy that Baba Oke has clocked 86 years today. No one would believe that Baba is 86 years old because he looks so spry and healthy. We pray that the Almighty God continues to grant him good health, amen”.

    The Minister described Chief Oke as an exceptional leader and a shining example of excellence.” I, therefore, extend warm greetings to you on this special day”.

    “As you celebrate another year of life, we reflect on the incredible impact you’ve made in the lives of those around you. Your wisdom, guidance, and selfless dedication to the well-being of others are qualities that inspire us all to strive for greatness”.

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    Aselabu said the former chairman’s life’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and a commitment to making a positive difference in the world.

    “As a respected leader, you’ve demonstrated an unwavering passion for the betterment of our community and the progressive family in Oyo State and Nigeria, and your contributions will be remembered for generations to come.

    “On this momentous occasion, we celebrate not only your achievements but also the values you embody; values of integrity, compassion, and a steadfast resolve to uplift those around you. Your presence in our lives is a blessing, and we are grateful for the opportunity to honor you”, Adelabu said.

  • FG outlines $23.2 billion energy investment target

    FG outlines $23.2 billion energy investment target

    The federal government has outlined a $23.2 billion energy investment target, which is expected to raise $15.5 billion from the private sector.

    It was part of the ambitious energy access programme that will transform the nation’s energy sector. 

    The minister of power, Adebayo Adelabu, is spearheading the programme that will ensure the sector’s transformation.

     It is also result of the just-concluded Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit, held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

    The two-day Summit which brought together African leaders, business executives, and development partners to advance the continent’s ambitious energy agenda was hosted by the Government of Tanzania, the African Union, the African Development Bank Group, and the World Bank Group, and aims to accelerate electricity access for 300 million Africans by 2030.

    Adelabu’s media aide, Bolaji Tunji, made this known on Thursday in a statement.

    The statement revealed that through “the energy access programme, tagged National Energy Compact (NEC), the government aims to increase electricity access from 4 percent to 9 percent annually to close the energy gap, boost access to clean cooking solutions from 22 percent to 25 percent annually, expand renewable energy’s share in the power generation mix from 22 percent  to 50 percent, and mobilize $15.5 billion in private investment to drive last-mile electrification.”

    The efforts align with UN Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7), which seeks to ensure universal access to modern energy services.

    While unveiling the ambitious programme, the Minister said it would expand electricity access, increase renewable energy adoption, and improve clean cooking solutions for millions of Nigerians. “With 150 million Nigerians already electrified, Nigeria remains committed to ensuring universal access to affordable and sustainable energy by 2030”, the  Minister said.

    Adelabu noted that while the roadmap for expansion is clear, challenges such as vandalism of power infrastructure pose a significant threat to Nigeria’s electrification efforts. “Transmission towers, pipelines, and distribution equipment have been targeted, disrupting supply and deterring potential investors”. 

    The Minister emphasized that protecting power assets is crucial to ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply and sustaining progress, adding that “the government is intensifying efforts to curb vandalism through enhanced security, stricter penalties, and improved surveillance technologies”.

    According to him, achieving Nigeria’s electrification targets requires significant investment, and the government prioritises private sector participation to unlock additional resources. 

    “The Compact outlines a $23.2 billion investment target, with $15.5 billion expected from private investors. These funds will be directed toward expanding power generation, strengthening transmission and distribution networks, and integrating distributed renewable energy solutions”, he said.

    Recognising that achieving universal energy access demands collective action, the government called on development partners, philanthropies, and the private sector to join the transformative journey. 

    “By implementing the action plan in the National Energy Compact, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s energy transition and creating opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and industrialization”, the Minister reiterated. 

    “As the Mission 300 initiative gains momentum, Nigeria’s strong commitment to energy sector reforms, infrastructure expansion, and investment mobilization will be crucial in shaping the future of electricity access across the continent”, he added.

  • How we’ll spend N8 billion, by Power Minister

    How we’ll spend N8 billion, by Power Minister

    • Counters NLC’s resigration call

    The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu yesterday denied requesting for N8 billion solely for sensitization on electricity bills payment.

    His media aide, Mr. Bolaji Tunji made this known while responding to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) that has asked the minister to resign for seeking N8 billion to sensitize Nigerians on the payment of electricity bills.

    NLC President, Joe Ajaero, had in a statement described the Power Ministry’s demand as “absurd”, urging those in the Ministry and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to reinvigorate the sector and save it from total collapse.

    Ajaero highlighted gross corruption in the power sector, and the inability of the leaders to find lasting solutions to power challenges despite huge investments in the sector.

    “The power sector in Nigeria is at the brink of collapse as the helmsmen have repeatedly shown gross incompetence.”

    It is a sector where NERC despite the enormous power invested in it by the Electricity act of 2023 has continuously demonstrated incapacity to regulate or outrightly refused to discharge its responsibilities to electricity consumers in Nigeria while the Minister in charge is enamoured with seeking about N8billion to teach Nigerians how to pay electricity bill.

    “It is therefore not surprising that power grid collapse is now a constant as it has continued to succumb to greed and crass incompetence.

    “Whereas the Minister seeks N8 billion to educate us, contractors in the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) who help in delivering capacity are owed over N200 billion (Two Hundred Billion Naira).”

    But Tunji, in  a Whatsapp message to The Nation, said: “It is important to correct the impression that N8billion is being proposed for sensitization on electricity payment.

    “The minister never said the money would be spent on sensitization on electricity payment.”

    Lamenting act of vandalism that has continued to throw different parts of the country into darkness with vandals planting bombs on power tower, carting away power lines, the Minister said there is a need to protect the power infrastructure.

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    According to him, the fund would be most spent on a nationwide sensitization.

    It would also include the use of the radio, television, social media, newspapers, and billboard to reorientate the citizenry on the setbacks of vandalism of power assets.

    Adelabu said it would also entail the engagement of various community stakeholders such as security men to keep surveillance on the infrastructure.

    He said: “This would entail sensitization across the 774 LGs and 36 States and Abuja, it would entail the use of electronics i.e radio, television; the social media, newspapers, billboards to re-orientate Nigerians on the implications of vandalizing power infrastructure.

    “It would also require the engagements of the different community stakeholders across geo political zones in town hall meetings; engaging local security men to protect the assets. So, saying that the Ministry has budgeted N8billion on sensitization on payment of bills is showing a lack of understanding of all the problems in the power sector.”

      On the issue of incessant grid collapse, Adelabu said the government is making efforts continuously to tackle the problems.

    According to him, it is a known fact that over the years, the infrastructure has been neglected and allowed to decay to a state of dilapidation.

    He said they are being gradually tackled. Continuing, the minister said: “The Siemens project is one of the ways of tackling this.

    “The pilot stage of the Siemens project that will ensure the installation of 10 power transformers and the mobile substations is about 95 per cent complete.

    “The 2nd phase will see the construction of 14 brown field substations and 20 green field substations.

    “Agreement has been signed for the construction of 5 substations starting Q1.

    “This will further strengthen the grid capacity and reduce instances of grid collapse. Not only that, the SCADA project is still ongoing.

    “It should be noted that when the present administration came on stream, the generation stagnated at about 4000 megawatt, and within that period, over 1000 megawatt has been added to the grid reaching an all-time high of 5,270 megawatt.

    “All the Minister of power is asking for is the cooperation of all to ensure that the renewed hope agenda as it relates to the power sector which is crucial for economic development is achieved.

    “Under the pilot phase of the Siemens project 10 power transformers and 10 mobile substations were supposed to be purchased and installed.

    “We have installed 8 power transformers and five mobile substations in the following areas:  Apo in Abuja, Okene in  Kogi, Amuse in Delta, Ihovbor in Edo, Maryland in Lagos, Potiskum in Yobe,  Ajah in Lagos, Birnin Kebbi in Kebbi state, Jebba in Niger State, Kwanar-dangora in Kano State,  UI, Oyo State, and Sapade, Ogun State.

    “This has helped in stabilizing the grid. The major issue today is vandalism which is drawing us a few steps backward.”

  • New 132/33KV transmission sub-station to boost power supply, says Adelabu

    New 132/33KV transmission sub-station to boost power supply, says Adelabu

    Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, at the weekend inaugurated a new 110MVA transformer at the Isolo Transmission Substation in Lagos. This development aims to improve power delivery to residential, commercial and industrial consumers in areas like Airport road, Ajao Estate and Afprint, Aswani, Isolo Local Council.

    The project would further strengthen Nigeria’s transmission network by boosting grid capacity and efficiency, the project would also ensure improved electricity access, support industrialisation, and enhance economic productivity.

    At the official inauguration the Power Transformer, the minister said: “I am happy we are commissioning this today because of the positive impact it will have on our energy access and reliability.

    “Beyond enhancing electricity supply, this project has broader implications for our economy through direct impact on Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).

    “It will also reduce operational challenges caused by power shortages, foster economic growth and create job opportunities for Nigerians.

    “This is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda which recognises that energy is not merely a commodity; it is the backbone of economic growth and job creation.”

    On his part, the Managing Director of TCN, Dr Sule Abdulaziz, said the newly-installed transformer would increase TCN’s capacity to transmit more bulk electricity through substations to distribution companies for their customers.

    He said the transformer would progressively increase TCN’s capacity to transmit more bulk electricity through substations to distribution companies (DisCos) for their customers.

    “Notably, this is the first Service Level Agreement (SLA) transformer project completed and energised by the TCN,” Abdulaziz said.

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    This enhancement significantly boosts the substation’s ability to provide improved electricity supply to the Ikeja Electric (IE).

    “As a result, IE will be able to transmit more power to critical areas within its network, including Airport Road, Ajao Estate, Isolo Local Council, PTC, Afprint, Idi-Araba, Aswani, and Pure Hygiene.”

    The MD added that the project would enhance power availability and reliability for both residential and commercial consumers in the areas, he added.

    The chief executive officer (CEO) of Ikeja Electric, Folake Soetan, commended TCN for the project, noting that it would enable the company to improve electricity distribution to its customers.

    The Acting managing director of Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC), Rekia Momoh,  said the project would increase capacity and reduce load in Isolo and its environs.

    Adelabu also seized the ocassion to touch on the menace of vandalism being experienced in all the transformer networks across the country was disturbing.

    He said: “It can be depressing when we have just completed a transformer installation and few weeks after, they are brought down by vandals.

     “This shows that we don’t love ourselves, these does not happen in many other parts of the world.

     “A lot of places are in darkness today because of these acts of vandalism.

     “For four months, Bayelsa State was in darkness because of local vandalism.”

    Adelabu stated that he had just received a message that vandals had destroyed the Kapanke Area 132 KVA line 1 and 2, which are underground cables, overnight.

    Adelabu added: “This act has thrown the Central Area in Abuja, Maitama which includes my own office in Garki Area into darkness.

     “As we are struggling to stabilise energy power transmission in the country, some people are hiding somewhere to frustrate this effort and draw the country backwards.”

    The minister urged all stakeholders, from government agencies to private sector partners and local communities, to work collaboratively to ensure the sustainability and security of the nation’s power infrastructure.

  • Power supply will be fully restored to North in 14 days -FG

    Power supply will be fully restored to North in 14 days -FG

    Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has explained why the North suffered total blackout for several days.

    He said the ongoing engineering work on the vandalised facility has resulted in partial power supply in the North and maintained that the Shiroro-Mando plant where the major sabotage occurred will be fixed in 14 days.

    He assured full restoration of power supply to 17 Northern States by Sunday when the second line of the Makudi-Bauchi route is completed.

    Adelabu gave the assurance at Government House, Kano when he paid a visit to Governor Abba Yusuf on Thursday. Yusuf was represented by his Chief of Staff, Shehu Wada Sagagi.

    While in Kano, the Minister visited the Managing Director of Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO), Abubakar Yusuf, at the company’s headquarters before visiting the Kano Government House and inspecting power facilities.

    “I can assure you that, our people are on the field working day and night for the partial restoration become full restoration.

    “Two of the lines from Markudi-Bauchi road that were vandalised, one of them is up now and I have been assured by the engineers on the field that by Sunday we are going to have a fix of the second line, we are going to have full restoration.

    “We will continue to work on the main transmission line to the North which is Shiroro-Mando-Kaduna line which may take us about 14 days to fix because of the extend of damage done to these transmission lines.

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    “They used land mines to blore up these installations and affected a lot of towers and all requires a lot of civil work for them to be fully fixed,” the Minister said.

    He apologised to the North over the power blackout, saying President Bola Tinubu does not intend to discriminate against the region or any section of the country as being perceived by some Nigerians.

    He explained that it was not the first time that the country was having these kinds of vandalism from the Shiroro axis. “We had it before and fixed it before the consumers got to know,” he said.

    He called on government at all levels to join forces in protecting the power infrastructures across the country.

    “We all have a role to play in protecting the power infrastructures including power consumers. A part from the physical security, we need a lot of reorientation of our people against vandalization and power theft,” he advised.

    Adelabu expressed the commitment of the Federal Government to partner with States in developing other alternative power sources.

  • Tinubu invites Adelabu, Ribadu over blackout in north

    Tinubu invites Adelabu, Ribadu over blackout in north

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has invited Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, over the prolonged electricity blackout that has severely disrupted daily life and economic activities in the North. 

    According to a statement on Monday by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu, who expressed concerns over the situation, also charged the Minister and other relevant agencies to expedite the restoration of electricity to all affected states. 

    Reports have said that not less than 17 of the 19 States of the North have been affected by the blackout, which has lasted about two weeks, following the vandalisation of the Shiroro-Kaduna lines. 

    Tinubu expressed dismay over the situation, particularly the widespread impact of the power disruption on northern communities.

    After receiving a briefing from Minister Adelabu on the status of repairs to the damaged Shiroro-Kaduna transmission lines, President Tinubu emphasized the need for a sustainable, long-term solution. 

    He urged the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) engineers to intensify their work to bring immediate relief to affected communities.

    In a further directive, Tinubu instructed Ribadu to collaborate with the Army and Air Force to ensure the security of TCN personnel and contractors at work on the damaged lines, including providing aerial cover to prevent any additional disruptions. 

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    This measure aims to ensure that restoration efforts continue without interruption, safeguarding engineers and infrastructure from future threats.

    The President also called on traditional rulers, community leaders and influential figures in the North to support security agencies in protecting public assets and infrastructure from further sabotage. 

    Reaffirming a stance against deliberate destruction of public utilities, Tinubu warned that the government would no longer tolerate acts of sabotage against the nation’s power infrastructure.

    “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed concern over the blackout in the northern region of Nigeria in the last week. He is now leading efforts to end the disruption that has paralysed social and economic activities, summoning the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

    “The President has directed the Minister of Power and relevant agencies to speed up the pace of work to restore electricity to all the affected states in the North. 

    “President Tinubu is saddened by the reports of vandalism and wilful destruction of power infrastructure and other public assets that caused the unfortunate blackout. 

    “In a meeting with the Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, who briefed on efforts made by the Transmission Company of Nigeria to repair the damaged Shiroro-Kaduna transmission lines, the President directed a long-term solution to the problem.

    “President Tinubu charged TCN engineers not to relent in bringing immediate relief to the people who need electricity to sustain their social and economic activities.

    “To ensure that restoration work continues unhindered, President Tinubu also directed the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to work with the Army and Air Force to deploy adequate security personnel, including aerial cover, to protect the engineers who are fixing the damaged transmission line. 

    “President Tinubu implores traditional rulers, community leaders, and other leaders of thought to work with security agencies to protect public assets and infrastructure. 

    “He said the government will no longer condone deliberate sabotage and destruction of public utilities,” the statement reads.  

  • Adelabu summons TCN, NERC over grid collapse

    Adelabu summons TCN, NERC over grid collapse

    Worried at the disturbance on the national grid which threw some sections of the country into darkness twice within the week,  Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu at the weekend summoned the leadership of  the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and the Transmission company of Nigeria (TCN) to an emergency meeting. 

    The Minister expressed displeasure at the incident, which he said, was capable of rubbishing the giant strides made in the last one year which has led to an increased generation and distribution of 5, 527 megawatts, a record generation in three years.

    This was made known in a press statement his Special Adviser, Strategic Communication and Media Relations, Mr. Bolaji Tunji issued from Abuja yesterday.

    The statement said Adelabu also constituted a forensic investigation committee  with a mandate to advise the government on necessary solutions to make the national grid robust and reliable in addition to the ongoing efforts of the government like the Presidential Power Initiatives (PPI) and the Nigeria Electricity Transmission Project (NETAP).

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    The Committee is to also establish the root cause of both incidents especially a review of potential sabotage on the system.

    The Committee will holistically review the national grid stability and identify investments and technical capacities required to make the grid smart and resilient.

    In addition, a technical team has been deployed to access the critical nodes on the national grid to identify potential vulnerabilities and proffer recommendations to address these vulnerabilities to prevent future disruptions to the  grid.

    On  Monday, October 14, there was a partial collapse  due to the  tripping of a line at the Jebba Transmission Substation and recurring fault at the Osogbo Transmission Substation. Efforts to restore the grid further resulted in a  setback the following day. The System was however fully restored on Wednesday,  October 16, 2024. There was no grid collapse on Tuesday as was widely speculated as the setback was a continuation of Monday’s restoration efforts on the grid.

    Also what was described on  Saturday, October 19, as grid collapse was  a deliberate protective shut down of the grid as a result of the explosion of the Jebba transformer. And this was restored within two hours. “ What we had were more of grid disturbances than collapses”.

     Preliminary assessment of Jebba incident suggested that the explosion was as a result of ageing equipment unrelated to the initial collapse.

    The six-member committee are; Engr. Nafisat Ali, Executive Director, Independent System Operator (ISO), who leads the committee, Dr. Chidi Ike, Commissioner, NERC, Engr. Ishola (GM. National Control Centre (NCC) , Engr. Emmanuel Nosike, Director,  Transmission, Federal Ministry of Power (FMoP),   Engr. Ali Sharifai (GM, Transmission Service Provider (TSP) and Mr. Adedayo Olowoniyi, Chief Technical Adviser to the Minister of Power.

    The team is expected to present a report to the Minister by November 1,  2024.

  • Fed Govt earmarks $1b to de-risk projects, attract investments

    Fed Govt earmarks $1b to de-risk projects, attract investments

    The Federal Government through the Ministry of Power has successfully mobilised over $1 billion to de-risk projects and attract additional investments.

    The Ministry has also launched the Renewables Investment Platform for Limitless Energy (RIPLE) with $500 million from the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA).

    The Minister for Power, Adebayo Adelabu who disclosed this added that the ministry  had finalised the World Bank’s $750 million Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) program scheduled to commence in November. This, he said would deliver electricity to 2.5 million people through solar home systems and mini-grids in underserved areas.

    Speaking during the Nigeria Energy Leadership Summit, in Lagos, Adelabu said these initiatives were dedicated to developing renewable energy projects across the value chain, adding it is a critical step in advancing the commitment to achieving Net-Zero emissions by 2060.

    On the generation side, the Minister said the ministry had expanded Nigeria’s on-grid generation capacity.

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    According to him, the inauguration of the 700 megawatt (Mw) Zungeru Hydropower Plant is a major milestone, increasing the generation output and boosting supply levels.

    This, he stated had resulted in an average supply of over 5,000Mw, with a peak capacity of 5,527Mw in the month of September.

    The transmission and distribution networks have also seen significant upgrades, he added.

    Adelabu said through the Presidential Power Initiative, the ministry had added about 600Mw of transmission evacuation capacity in the past year. This, he said was as a result of the accelerated performance agreement signed in November 2023 between President Tinubu and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

    “These efforts are aimed at modernising the grid infrastructure, reducing losses, and improving the quality of power delivered to consumers. One of the longstanding issues we continue to tackle is the metering gap,” Adelabu stated.

    To address this, he said the ministry had launched the Presidential Metering Initiative supported by the World Bank Distribution Sector Reform Program (DISREP).

    The DISREP program, he said was aimed at installing 3.2 million meters out of which 1.3 million meters had been procured with the first set of meters to be delivered by December, while the balance would be delivered by second-quarter of 2025.

    This initiative, he said would reduce estimated billing, enhance transparency, and improve sector liquidity by ensuring that energy consumers were fairly billed.

    Adelabu said the Ministry has prioritised local content development by promoting domestic production of energy components, creating jobs, and reducing reliance on imports.

    “We have a mandate in place on the DISREP program that ensures at least 250,000 meters are procured from local manufacturers, the procurement process for this batch is ongoing,” he said, adding that local businesses were central to the energy transformation and economic diversification goals.

    He said to achieve the partnerships with state governments in implementing State Electricity Markets and upholding a sustainable national energy security it was important that local capacity was strengthened.

    “As we look to the future, our focus remains on fully implementing the Integrated National Electricity Policy and achieving the strategic goals we have set.

    “With the 2023 Electricity Act providing the legal framework and the INEP setting the strategic direction, Nigeria is well-positioned to overcome the challenges that have historically plagued the electricity sector,” he said.

    Adelabu said the next steps would involve continued investment in infrastructure upgrades, capacity building for local stakeholders, and strengthening regulatory enforcement to ensure that the gains we have made are sustained.

    Adelabu maintained that the Ministry had in the first one year set the nation’s power sector on a transformative path, working tirelessly to ensure that it delivered sustainable, reliable, and affordable electricity to Nigerians across the country.

    He said: “This has been a year of both challenges and remarkable achievements, and I am proud to say that we have built a solid foundation that positions Nigeria’s power sector for success in the years ahead.” He said one of the greatest achievements in the past year was the enactment of the 2023 Electricity Act, signed into law by Tinubu.

    The Minister said this legislation represented a major shift in how the government regulates and manages electricity in the country adding for the first time, sub-national governments have been brought into the fold, empowering them to establish and manage their own electricity markets.

    He said already, 10 State Electricity Markets had been created, enabling the creation of a more decentralised, responsive, and competitive electricity supply industry adding this decentralisation is key to fostering innovation, driving investment, and delivering greater energy security for Nigerians.

    “At the core of this progress is the Integrated National Electricity Policy (INEP), which has been the result of a collaborative effort involving industry stakeholders, development partners, and consumer groups. This policy provides a comprehensive roadmap to address critical issues in the electricity sector,” Adelabu said.

    According to him, the INEP outlines strategic directives to ensure energy security, economic growth, inclusivity and environmental sustainability, focusing on creating a resilient and efficient electricity market that meets the diverse needs of the people.

    “Through meticulous planning and teamwork, we now have the strategic direction necessary to bring reliable power to every Nigerian. One of the critical challenges we have faced has been ensuring the financial solvency of the sector,” he said.

    To address this, he said the ministry had successfully implemented cost-reflective tariffs for Band A customers, those receiving the highest level of service.

    This reform has injected much-needed liquidity into the sector, enabling investments to flow into critical areas. “We have also worked to tighten service level obligations for distribution companies, holding them accountable for their performance,” he said.

    The Minister recalled that in April, a DisCo was fined N200 million for failing to meet its service obligations, sending a clear signal that the government was serious about ensuring quality service delivery.

    “We have also taken decisive steps to resolve legacy debts owed to gas suppliers, securing presidential approval to settle these obligations,” Adelabu added.

    This intervention he insisted had helped prevent disruptions in gas supply, ensuring stable electricity generation as well as providing much-needed reliability to the grid adding the cornerstone of the efforts had been ensuring financial sustainability in the sector.

    While expressing the commitment to transparency, accountability, and innovation in all processes, Adelabu said the Federal Ministry of Power, under his leadership, had laid the foundation for a future where every Nigerian has access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity.

  • 54th birthday: Adelabu Mandate Group uplifts physically challenged people in Ibadan

    54th birthday: Adelabu Mandate Group uplifts physically challenged people in Ibadan

    As part of the 54th birthday celebration of the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, the Adelabu Media Mandate Group, in collaboration with Penkelemesi Global Darlings, extended support to physically challenged individuals and the less privileged in Ibadan, Oyo state, showcasing their commitment to social responsibility.

    Group leader, Com. Femi Awogboro described the initiative as a philanthropic effort to provide essential aid and resources to marginalized communities.

    During the presentation of crutches, tripods, and palliatives, Awogboro highlighted the group’s mission to positively impact the lives of those in need, which includes the distribution of food, clothing, and educational materials to vulnerable individuals and families.

    He said: “We must prioritize the well-being of our brothers and sisters who require our support.”

    At a programme held yesterday in Ibadan, the group donated walking aids, and other essential items to enhance the mobility and independence of physically challenged persons.

    This initiative by the Adelabu Media Mandate Group serves as a beacon of hope for those struggling to overcome challenges. By providing tangible assistance and promoting inclusivity, they are helping to build a more compassionate and equitable society.

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    Their selfless work embodies the values of empathy and community service, inspiring others to follow suit.

    Meanwhile, the beneficiaries of the items in their separate remarks expressed gratitude for the gesture, highlighting the significant difference it would make in the lives of the beneficiaries.