Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu Submits Resignation, Advocates for Energy Coordination
Chief Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, has officially tendered his resignation and recommended the establishment of a Coordinating Minister for Energy to drive comprehensive reforms across Nigeria's power, gas, and related sectors. The resignation was announced in a letter dated April 22, 2026, signed by Bolaji Tunji, his Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations.
Resignation Details and Political Ambitions
In the letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Adelabu stated that his resignation will take effect on April 30, 2026. He explained that this move allows him to focus on his gubernatorial ambition in Oyo State, aligning with the provisions of the Amended Electoral Act 2026, which prohibits serving political office holders from contesting elections. Adelabu disclosed that his aspiration for the governorship dates back to 2016 during his tenure as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
Achievements During Tenure
In his three-page resignation letter, Adelabu outlined key achievements recorded during his time as Minister of Power. These include:
- Implementation of the Electricity Act 2023, which decentralised the electricity market and improved the investment climate.
- Peak power generation rising to over 6,000 megawatts, driven by the integration of the Zungeru Hydropower Plant and rehabilitation of thermal power plants.
- Strengthened transmission capacity through grid upgrades under the Presidential Power Initiative.
- Notable improvements in the distribution segment, including enhanced regulatory oversight, improved revenue collection, and progress in reducing Aggregate Technical, Commercial and Collection (ATC&C) losses.
- Momentum in closing the metering gap through the Presidential Metering Initiative and the World Bank-supported Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP).
Financial Reforms and Challenges
Adelabu highlighted that tariff reforms and a ₦4 trillion debt restructuring programme increased market revenues from ₦1 trillion in 2023 to ₦2.3 trillion in 2025, restoring investor confidence and placing the sector on a path to sustainability. However, he acknowledged persistent challenges such as gas supply constraints, infrastructure vandalism, and the need for full commercialisation of the electricity value chain.
Proposed Measures for Sustained Progress
To address these issues and sustain progress, Adelabu proposed several key measures:
- Implementation of cost-reflective tariffs with targeted subsidies.
- Recapitalisation of distribution companies.
- Accelerated nationwide metering.
- Sustained transmission investments.
- Strengthened regulatory enforcement.
Recommendation for Coordinating Minister for Energy
Central to his recommendations is the creation of a Coordinating Minister for Energy to provide strategic oversight and ensure synergy across power, gas, water resources, and environmental sectors. Adelabu emphasised that this approach is critical to improving gas supply for thermal generation, optimising hydroelectric resources, and accelerating renewable energy deployment.
Gratitude and Handover Process
Adelabu expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, describing his tenure as a privilege to contribute to national development. He remains committed to ensuring a smooth and seamless handover process, while thanking the President for the confidence and support extended throughout his tenure.
