Honourable Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, engaged with journalists in a question and answer session during a Ministerial Press Briefing organized by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, on Friday, April 5th, 2024. The session aimed to address various concerns surrounding Nigeria’s power supply and the government’s efforts to enhance the country’s energy infrastructure.
In response to inquiries regarding the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with Germany to bolster Nigeria’s power supply, Honourable Minister Adelabu elucidated on the developments since the agreement’s inception in 2018. He acknowledged the challenges encountered, particularly amid the COVID-19 pandemic and the transition to a new government. However, he expressed optimism following recent discussions with German counterparts and the signing of an acceleration agreement in December 2023. The pilot phase of the project, which includes the installation of power transformers and mobile substations, is nearing completion, signaling significant progress towards enhancing the nation’s transmission and distribution infrastructure.
Dispelling misconceptions surrounding the connectivity of the Zungeru hydroelectric power plant to the national grid, Honourable Minister Adelabu clarified that the plant is operational and capable of evacuating power. He emphasized ongoing efforts to finalize the technical handover process, with power generation already initiated and expected to ramp up in the coming weeks.
Addressing concerns regarding power plants receiving payments without supplying electricity, the Minister assured transparency and accountability in government operations, asserting that no power plant would receive payments without fulfilling its obligation to generate power.
In response to queries regarding the government’s role in the power sector, Honourable Minister Adelabu emphasized the importance of privatization while acknowledging its shortcomings. He underscored the government’s commitment to optimizing the performance of private sector operators and ensuring the sector’s efficiency and effectiveness.
Regarding concerns over the rationalization of power consumption, the Minister urged prudence and efficient energy management among consumers, emphasizing the need for reporting any service deficiencies to the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
Honourable Minister Adelabu concluded the session by reiterating the government’s dedication to addressing challenges in the power sector and enhancing electricity access and reliability nationwide.