The Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, has acknowledged that many Nigerians are yet to experience consistent electricity supply despite ongoing government efforts to address challenges in the power sector.
Tegbe made the admission in a post on his X account on Tuesday, saying he understood the frustration of citizens who had not yet seen noticeable improvements since he assumed office three months ago.
The minister explained that much of the government’s work during the period had focused on identifying and tackling longstanding problems affecting electricity generation, transmission and distribution.
Among the interventions, Tegbe highlighted the restoration of the 375-megawatt Alaoji power plant in Abia State, which had reportedly remained inactive for three years.
He also said efforts had been made to increase available transmission capacity in Lagos, Abuja and other parts of the country, while the government was mobilising resources to tackle the sector’s accumulated debt.
Tegbe further disclosed that more than 350,000 electricity meters had been deployed following the resolution of a legal dispute involving the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors and meter manufacturers.
Despite these developments, the minister acknowledged that the measures had not yet translated into reliable power for many households and businesses.
“Admittedly, many Nigerians are still without reliable power, and I understand the frustration of hearing about progress you haven’t personally felt yet,” he said.
Tegbe said reforming the electricity sector would require sustained efforts and warned against making promises of immediate solutions that could not be maintained.
He also addressed concerns over electricity tariffs, stating that the Federal Government had no plan to increase electricity prices.
The minister said the government remained focused on improving grid stability, strengthening electricity supply and making billing more accurate.
He added that efforts were also underway to ensure that complaints from electricity consumers are handled and resolved more promptly.
Tegbe thanked workers and stakeholders in the power sector for continuing to operate under challenging conditions, while acknowledging Nigerians who have continued to raise concerns about electricity supply.
“We’re not there yet, but we’re moving,” the minister said.
