Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, is preparing to step down from his position following approval from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State.
The planned resignation comes on the heels of a meeting held on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where Adelabu presented a detailed account of his performance in the power sector over the last two and a half years.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, Bolaji Tunji, the session featured a comprehensive review of reforms and policy frameworks introduced under the minister’s leadership.
A key highlight of the meeting was Adelabu’s presentation of the National Integrated Electricity Policy (NIEP) alongside its Strategic Implementation Plan, both designed to reposition Nigeria’s electricity sector for long-term sustainability.
The statement also confirmed that the minister would soon vacate office as he shifts focus to his political ambition.
It read, “In view of this development, Chief Adebayo Adelabu is expected to resign his position as Minister of Power in the coming days.”
Providing insight into the timing, Tunji explained that the decision was carefully structured to ensure stability within the sector before the minister’s exit.
“The timing of his anticipated resignation reflects his commitment to addressing key sectoral challenges and ensuring continuity in ongoing reforms prior to exiting office. Notably, this includes efforts to stabilise the sector following recent declines in power generation due to gas supply constraints to power plants, ongoing pipeline repairs, and outstanding obligations to gas suppliers, as well as the need to secure the President’s approval for his intended resignation and gubernatorial aspiration in Oyo State,” Tunji said.
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The development aligns with an earlier directive by the president requiring all political appointees with electoral ambitions to resign on or before March 31.
During his briefing to the president, Adelabu highlighted key achievements recorded under his watch, including measures aimed at boosting electricity generation, improving transmission infrastructure, and driving reforms to enhance efficiency across the power value chain.
“During the meeting, the minister outlined key milestones recorded under his leadership, including efforts to stabilise electricity generation, strengthen transmission capacity, and implement reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency and service delivery across the power sector value chain,” the statement noted.
Further details revealed that the policy presentation also included the Medium-Long Term Integrated Resource Plan, intended to ensure continuity and sustainability in the sector beyond his tenure.
Explaining the significance of the NIEP, the statement added, “The NIEP is a comprehensive policy framework designed to guide the sustainable development of Nigeria’s electricity sector. It provides a long-term roadmap for achieving energy security, expanding electricity access, integrating renewable energy, and building a more resilient and efficient power sector.”
President Tinubu was said to have expressed satisfaction with the minister’s performance, particularly in laying the groundwork for long-term reforms.
“President Tinubu commended the minister for his dedication and the progress recorded, particularly in laying a strong policy foundation for the transformation of the power sector. The President also granted his consent and blessing for the minister to pursue his governorship ambition,” Tunji explained.
Adelabu, in turn, expressed gratitude to the president for his continued support, reaffirming his commitment to contributing to national development even as he prepares to transition into the next phase of his political career.