Bayo Adelabu resigns as power minister, proposes coordinating minister for energy role

Adebayo Adelabu, the minister of power, has resigned from his position, proposing the creation of a coordinating minister for energy to drive integrated reforms across Nigeria’s electricity and gas sectors.

In a letter dated April 22 and addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Adelabu said his resignation will take effect on April 30, to enable him to focus on his governorship ambition in Oyo state.

Tunji Bolaji, special adviser on strategic communications and media relations to the minister, had hinted at Adelabu’s looming resignation earlier on Wednesday.

At a news conference on March 24, the politician declined to speak on his resignation and gubernatorial ambition, claiming that he is focused on addressing the country’s electricity challenges.

However, in his letter to Tinubu, the minister said the decision to quit aligns with provisions of the amended Electoral Act.

Tunji said the minister expressed appreciation to the president for the opportunity to serve.

“My decision to step down is guided by my desire to fully comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act and to focus on my governorship aspiration in Oyo State,” Tunji quoted Adelabu as saying.

The spokesperson said the minister emphasised the need for stronger coordination across the energy sector to sustain ongoing reforms.

“Sustaining and consolidating the gains recorded in the power sector requires stronger coordination at the highest level, including the appointment of a central authority to harmonise policy direction and execution,” Adelabu said.

In the letter, the minister outlined key achievements “recorded” during his tenure, including the implementation of the Electricity Act 2023, “which decentralised the electricity market”.

He said peak power generation increased significantly during his time in office.

“Peak power generation rose to over 6,000 megawatts, driven by the integration of the Zungeru hydropower plant and the rehabilitation of thermal power plants,” he said.

Adelabu also cited improvements in distribution performance and metering initiatives supported by the World Bank.

On the financial position of the sector, he said reforms had improved revenue generation.

“Tariff reforms and a N4 trillion debt restructuring programme increased market revenues from N1 trillion in 2023 to N2.3 trillion in 2025, restoring investor confidence and placing the sector on a path to sustainability,” Adelabu said.

Despite the gains recorded, the minister acknowledged persistent structural challenges in the sector.

“There is still a need for stronger institutional coordination to address gas supply constraints, infrastructure vandalism, and the full commercialisation of the electricity value chain,” he said.

Adelabu said establishing a coordinating minister for energy would help align policy execution across critical sectors.

“The creation of a coordinating minister for energy will provide strategic oversight and ensure synergy across power, gas, water resources, and environmental sectors,” he said.

The minister committed to ensuring a smooth handover process before leaving office.