The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has attributed Nigeria’s persistent electricity challenges to decades of neglect by previous administrations, accusing them of failing to take meaningful action to transform the sector.
Adelabu made the remarks in Abuja while receiving a delegation from the World Bank at his office, where he gave a frank assessment of the nation’s energy trajectory.
“We actually have a past that we are not proud of,” the minister said. “For years, we’ve merely talked about reforming the power sector without doing the real work. It’s been all talk, no action.”
He cited the poor maintenance of existing infrastructure, widespread vandalism, and a significant shortfall in consumer metering as critical issues that have plagued the industry. “How can you run a sector serving over 12 million customers with fewer than six million meters in place and expect any level of stability? It simply doesn’t add up,” Adelabu stated.
Reflecting on the slow pace of progress over the years, the minister pointed out that from 1984 to 2023, Nigeria’s power generation only increased from 2,000 to 4,000 megawatts, describing the four-decade stretch as a period of stagnation.
He contrasted this with the current administration’s performance, noting that average generation had climbed to 5,800 megawatts in just 18 months under President Bola Tinubu. Adelabu credited this progress to a more focused and pragmatic approach.
Referring to the Siemens electricity deal signed in 2019, Adelabu said the project remained dormant until Tinubu assumed office. “The pilot phase is now nearing completion, thanks to the renewed urgency and attention it has received from this administration,” he said.
The minister acknowledged the World Bank’s long-standing involvement in Nigeria’s energy development, especially in transmission, distribution, and renewable energy projects. He described the institution as a vital partner in the ongoing efforts to rebuild the sector.
Adelabu also underlined the importance of having experienced, results-oriented leadership. “It makes a difference when you have a leader who is both a seasoned businessman and a pragmatic politician,” he said, referring to President Tinubu.
He concluded by reaffirming the government’s resolve to deliver stable and reliable electricity to all Nigerians, asserting that energy is the backbone of national development — from agriculture and education to manufacturing and defence.
“We are no longer paying lip service,” Adelabu said. “We are here to deliver.”
