Olayiwola Matthew
Joseph Tegbe, Minister of Power, has said that he will not make unrealistic promises on electricity supply, but pledged to deliver visible improvement in the sector within the shortest time possible.
Tegbe was addressing a committee of senators on Wednesday during his screening for the ministerial appointment.
He said the power sector remains fundamental to productivity and national confidence, describing its reform as one of the most daunting national tasks.
The minister noted that despite years of reforms and investments, Nigerians continue to experience inconsistent electricity supply, estimated billing, and uncertainty.
“I will not stand here and say tomorrow, I will give you 24 hours electricity. But what I will tell you, and I will be very honest about it, is that I will ensure that visible improvement is seen across the country in the shortest time possible,” Tegbe said.
“I will replace uncertainty for Nigerians with clarity, and inefficiency with discipline.”
He disclosed that Nigeria currently has a 44 percent metering gap, noting that government efforts had led to the rollout of millions of meters in the past year, but said more progress is needed.
Tegbe said that his focus will be on distribution, gas and generation stability, transmission efficiency, accountability and transparency across the sector.
“We must reduce system disturbances and strengthen transmission, tariffs must reflect services, and tariffs must justify service, and we must close the trust gap between operators and our citizens,” the minister said.
Earlier on Wednesday, the senate confirmed Tegbe as minister of power and Sola Enikanolaiye as minister of state for foreign affairs.
Their confirmation followed requests sent to the senate by President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday.
