Kehinde Fajobi
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has affirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to supporting reforms in Nigeria’s power sector, urging collaboration among stakeholders to improve the reliability of the national grid.
Speaking at the International Power Engineering Exhibition and Conference in Abuja, Dr. Abbas, represented by the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Power, Rep August Gana, advocated for the integration of renewable energy into Nigeria’s power mix to enhance both efficiency and sufficiency.
He noted, “Over the years, the sector has undergone several reforms and privatisations aimed at improving efficiency and reliability.
“Despite these efforts, the sector continues to face numerous challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, transmission and distribution losses, and insufficient generation and distribution capacities.”
Dr. Abbas also referenced the transition from the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) to the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), recalling how this change inspired the phrase “Problem Has Changed Names.”
However, he highlighted the progress brought by privatisation, which has introduced more participants and investment opportunities, paving the way for a redefined future in Nigeria’s power sector.
Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Power, echoed these sentiments, lamenting that half of Nigerians remain without access to electricity.
“It is essential to note that Nigeria’s power sector faces numerous challenges, including frequent grid collapses, inadequate generation capacity, inefficient transmission and distribution networks, and regulatory hurdles that impede progress,” he said.
“Our nation generates approximately 4,500 MW for a population exceeding 200 million, leaving about half of our citizens without reliable electricity access.
“Despite possessing vast energy resources, the country continues to grapple with significant challenges in power generation and distribution,” he added, stressing the need for joint efforts to reform and revitalise the sector.
Engr. Israel Abraham, President of the Chartered Institute of Power Engineers of Nigeria (CIPEN), also addressed the conference, underscoring power’s crucial role in development and economic stability.
He remarked, “Power is central to every index of development and a robust economy. As the world advances in providing efficient and affordable power, we must adopt smarter management strategies to remain relevant.”
Abraham explained that the conference’s goal is to offer a unique platform for global power sector leaders, with a special focus on advancing Nigeria’s power landscape.