By Peace Udugba
The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday screened Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe as Minister of Power designate, with discussions focusing on his reform plans and strategies to tackle longstanding challenges in the country’s electricity sector.
During the screening, lawmakers acknowledged Tegbe’s experience in public sector reform and infrastructure development, noting that his cross-sector background could support ongoing efforts to stabilise the power sector.
Addressing the Senate, Tegbe described electricity as critical to national growth and economic productivity.
“Electricity is not just a sector. It is the foundation of productivity, dignity, and national confidence,” he said.
He admitted that the sector continues to face major challenges across the power value chain but stressed that while there may be no quick solution, there is a “disciplined path” toward achieving sustainable improvements through proper execution and measurable progress.
The ministerial nominee outlined several priority areas, including improving gas supply to increase electricity generation, strengthening grid reliability, enforcing accountability in electricity distribution, accelerating metering, and restoring financial discipline within the sector.
According to him, the proposed reforms are aimed at replacing inefficiency with discipline and ensuring visible progress in service delivery.
“We will replace uncertainty with clarity, inefficiency with discipline, and promises with measurable progress,” Tegbe stated.
On timelines for reforms, he said immediate diagnostic assessments and consultations with stakeholders would commence promptly before setting a clear timeline for achieving stable electricity supply nationwide.
He, however, expressed optimism that some improvements could be recorded within three months, while broader reforms such as restoring sector credibility, improving gas supply, and accelerating metering would likely begin to yield results within the first year.
Tegbe also pledged to work closely with the National Assembly and relevant stakeholders, noting that meaningful transformation in the power sector would require sustained collaboration and national commitment.
Reaffirming his commitment to accountability and delivery, he assured Nigerians that visible improvements would emerge in the sector within a reasonable time.
“I will be accountable for progress, responsible in communication, and disciplined in execution,” he added.
The screening exercise concluded with his nomination proceeding to the next stage of confirmation by the Senate.
