The newly confirmed Minister of Power, Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, has outlined his key priorities following his appointment.
During proceedings at the Senate on May 6, 2026, Tegbe unveiled his reform agenda while highlighting major priorities aimed at improving productivity in Nigeria’s power sector. He emphasized the importance of electricity as a critical foundation for national growth and development.
He stated:
“Electricity is not just a sector. It is the foundation of productivity, dignity, and national confidence.”
Reflecting on his previous experience in public sector reforms, institutional transformation, and infrastructure strategy. He outlined several priority areas, including improving gas supply to boost power generation, strengthening grid reliability, enforcing accountability in distribution, accelerating metering, and restoring financial discipline within the sector.
“We will replace uncertainty with clarity, inefficiency with discipline, and promises with measurable progress,”
he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to effective service delivery, Tegbe assured Nigerians that noticeable improvements would be seen within a short period, although he clarified that he could not promise uninterrupted electricity supply immediately.
“If I am confirmed, distinguished Senators, I will not stand here and say tomorrow I will give you 24-hour electricity,”
“But what I will tell you is that with a very honest approach, I will ensure that visible improvement is seen across the country in the shortest time possible. I will commit that we will replace uncertainty for Nigerians with clarity.” He explained.
According to him, structural and financial challenges remain major factors affecting the sector. He added that the proposed reforms would address both governance and funding issues hindering progress.
“The governance and financial structure of this sector remains under pressure.
In simple terms, we are trying to build a modern power system on the further evolution of the financial structure.” He added.
Notably, Tegbe’s ministerial confirmation followed his nomination by Bola Ahmed Tinubu after the resignation of former Minister of power, Adebayo Adelabu to pursue his gubernatorial ambition in Oyo State.
By Musekir Faisat Omolara
