Senate Confirms Tegbe As Power Minister, Demands Urgent End to Grid Collapse

The Nigerian Senate has confirmed Olasunkanmi Tegbe as the new Minister of Power, a move that carries immense expectations for revitalizing a sector plagued by decades of inefficiency and neglect. Lawmakers across party lines have charged the nominee with the urgent task of confronting the nation's deepening electricity crisis, particularly the recurring collapse of the national grid.

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Grid collapse is not an accident; it is a symptom of a system problem.

During his screening, Tegbe acknowledged the systemic nature of the power sector's problems, citing poor coordination, weak enforcement, and inadequate gas supply as key contributors to grid instability. His frank admission that 'Grid collapse is not an accident; it is a symptom of a system problem' resonates with the frustrations of Nigerians who have endured erratic power supply for too long.

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If you don’t see results in three months, you won’t see them in six months. Nigerians must hold us accountable.

Crucially, Tegbe has made a bold commitment: visible improvements within his first 100 days, including grid stabilization and the introduction of a public performance dashboard. His challenge to Nigerians to 'hold us accountable' if results are not seen is a powerful statement of intent. He also bravely alluded to entrenched interests, including a 'generator cabal,' that profit from the current inefficiencies, signaling a willingness to confront these obstacles head-on.

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There are elements who are not interested in power working efficiently because they profit from the inefficiencies. We will confront such interests.

From our perspective at ThisDay, Tegbe's confirmation is a critical juncture. The power sector is the bedrock of national development, and its persistent failures have stifled economic growth and industrialization. His pledge for transparency and accountability, coupled with a direct confrontation of vested interests, offers a glimmer of hope. The coming months will be a true test of his resolve and the government's commitment to delivering reliable electricity to Nigerians.

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Grid collapse has become a recurring decimal, affecting our quest for development. Transmission has also failed to effectively evacuate power generated by GENCOS.