By Chesa Chesa
Newly sworn-in Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, has assured Nigerians of visible improvements in electricity supply, pledging to build on ongoing reforms and investments made by President Bola Tinubu’s administration in the power sector.
Speaking with journalists shortly after his swearing-in on Monday, Tegbe noted that the administration had invested heavily in the power sector over the past three years and that Nigerians would soon begin to fully appreciate the impact of those efforts.
Acknowledging the difficulties facing the industry, Tegbe said the government was focused on delivering improved services while ensuring that vulnerable Nigerians were not left behind.
“I am not promising a magic wand. I am not promising 24 hours of power supply seven days a week. We will get there ultimately. But what I promise Nigerians is that they will see visible improvements,” he said.
The minister noted that many Nigerians had already reported better electricity supply in recent weeks, attributing the improvement to President Tinubu’s commitment to the sector, the efforts of the Ministry of Power and the dedication of agencies under its supervision.
He disclosed that since his confirmation by the Senate four weeks ago, he had engaged key stakeholders across the electricity value chain, including the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and other sector players.
“The feedback and commitments I have received from stakeholders are what Nigerians are beginning to see today. What we will do is ensure consistency and sustained improvement over the coming months,” he said.
Tegbe appealed for patience and support from Nigerians, assuring them that the government was tackling challenges across power generation, transmission and distribution.
“The President understands the challenges. We are addressing those challenges and we will make sure we fix them in generation, transmission and distribution,” he stated.
Highlighting recent achievements within the sector, the minister cited the quick restoration of a feeder station in Katampe, Abuja, which was repaired by TCN personnel within 24 hours after a fault disrupted supply.
He also referenced the revival of a Niger Delta Power Holding Company facility that had been out of operation for three years, describing it as evidence of the commitment and capability of workers in the power sector.
“If Nigerians see some of the things our people have done in the last few weeks, they will be amazed. There is commitment coming from the sector and you are going to see more of that,” he said.
