Tegbe Vows to Strengthens Grid Reliability, Accelerate Metering, Others

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

The Minister of Power designate, Mr Joseph Tegbe, has listed some key priority areas he hopes to achieve within a year if confirmed for the position.

At his screening at the Senate on Wednesday, Mr Tegbe said he intends to improve gas supply to boost generation, strengthen grid reliability, enforce accountability in distribution, accelerate metering, and restore financial discipline in the sector.

He expressed optimism that this key reform agenda would address longstanding challenges in the power sector.

Mr Tegbe stressed the importance of electricity to national development, stating, “Electricity is not just a sector. It is the foundation of productivity, dignity, and national confidence.”

He acknowledged persistent challenges across the power value chain, noting that while there is no “quick fix,” there is a “disciplined path to solving it,” anchored on execution discipline and measurable progress.

“We will replace uncertainty with clarity, inefficiency with discipline, and promises with measurable progress,” he added.

On timelines, Mr Tegbe pledged to begin immediate diagnostics of the issues and robust stakeholder engagement before arriving at a timeline for steady power supply, but indicated that some improvements could be achieved within three months. He added that broader reforms, such as restoring sector credibility, improving gas supply, and accelerating metering, are expected to materialise within the first year.

He also pledged to work closely with the National Assembly and other stakeholders, noting that sustained progress would require a coordinated national effort.

Reinforcing his commitment to delivery, Mr Tegbe assured Nigerians of visible improvements in no distant time, adding: “I will be accountable for progress, responsible in communication, and disciplined in execution.”

The screening concluded with the nomination proceeding to the next stage of confirmation.

At the screening exercise, Senators acknowledged his experience across public sector reform and infrastructure, noting that his cross-sector background positions him to support ongoing efforts to stabilise the sector.