Newly confirmed Minister of Power, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, has revealed a five-point strategy aimed at improving electricity supply across Nigeria and tackling the long-standing problems affecting the country’s power sector.
Speaking during his screening before the Senate on Wednesday, Tegbe explained that his administration would focus on practical reforms designed to improve power generation, transmission, distribution, and customer service.
According to him, one of the major priorities is improving gas supply to power plants in order to increase electricity generation capacity. Nigeria has struggled with inconsistent gas supply over the years, leading to reduced power output and unstable electricity supply nationwide.
Another key area he highlighted is the improvement of the national grid infrastructure. Frequent grid collapses and outdated transmission facilities have remained major obstacles to reliable electricity in the country. Tegbe said strengthening the grid would help reduce outages and improve the stability of power supply.
The minister also promised to introduce stronger accountability measures for electricity distribution companies, commonly known as DisCos. Many Nigerians have repeatedly complained about poor service delivery, estimated billing, and irregular power supply from distribution companies. Tegbe stated that operators in the sector must become more responsible and transparent in serving consumers.
Metering was also listed as one of his top priorities. He said the government plans to speed up the rollout of electricity meters to customers across the country. The issue of estimated billing has remained a major concern for households and businesses, with many consumers demanding prepaid meters to ensure fair billing practices.
In addition, Tegbe said restoring financial stability to the power sector would be critical to achieving long-term success. The sector has faced heavy debts, inadequate investments, and poor revenue collection for years, making it difficult for operators to function efficiently.
While addressing lawmakers, Tegbe stressed the importance of electricity to the nation’s economic growth and overall development.
“Electricity is not just a sector. It is the foundation of productivity, dignity, and national confidence,” he said.
He acknowledged that Nigeria’s electricity challenges cannot be solved overnight, but assured Nigerians that a structured and disciplined approach would gradually bring improvements.
According to him, the government intends to replace inefficiency and uncertainty with measurable progress and better execution of policies.
On the issue of timelines, Tegbe explained that his first step would involve detailed assessments of the sector’s problems as well as consultations with key stakeholders. He, however, noted that some noticeable improvements could begin to emerge within the next three months.
He added that broader reforms, including improved gas supply, increased metering, and restoring confidence in the sector, are expected to show stronger results within the first year of his administration.
The minister further pledged to work closely with the National Assembly, industry operators, and other stakeholders to ensure sustainable reforms in the sector.
Tegbe assured Nigerians that his administration would remain focused on achieving visible progress and delivering better electricity services across the country.
“I will be accountable for progress, responsible in communication, and disciplined in execution,” he stated.
