In a recent radio interview in Ibadan, Oyo State, Minister of Power Adedayo Adelabu addressed criticisms regarding his suitability for heading the power ministry, asserting that Nigeria’s electricity supply issues are not of a technical nature but are instead rooted in strategic and structural challenges.
Adelabu responded to concerns that he may lack the technical expertise needed for the role, emphasizing that the primary problems within the Nigerian power sector are strategic and structural rather than technical. “Our problem in the power sector is not technical, sincerely. It is purely strategic, structural; and it is a problem-solving specialist that we need,” he stated.
The minister clarified that his appointment by President Bola Tinubu was not to engage in the manufacturing of power infrastructure components such as transformers, meters, or cables. Instead, his mandate is to identify and address the systemic hurdles and bottlenecks affecting the sector’s efficiency. “They’ve not appointed me as minister to start manufacturing transformers, meters, power cables, towers, or electric poles. No! What they have appointed me to do is to look at the industry and see where the hurdles are. Where are the bottlenecks? To resolve it and make the sector flow,” Adelabu explained.
Adelabu’s remarks come amid ongoing debates about the direction and leadership of Nigeria’s power sector. His focus on strategic problem-solving highlights a broader approach to reform, aiming to improve the overall functionality of the electricity supply system rather than solely relying on technical solutions.
The minister’s approach reflects a commitment to addressing fundamental issues within the power sector, including regulatory inefficiencies, infrastructure challenges, and policy gaps. By focusing on these areas, Adelabu aims to create a more effective and reliable power supply system that can better meet the needs of Nigeria’s growing population and support economic development.
