The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has disclosed that he has been receiving threats from unidentified individuals who are opposed to the ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s power sector. Speaking during an interview on Fresh FM Ibadan, the minister affirmed his resolve to continue pushing for progress, despite the resistance.
“There will be resistance, people stand in your way, saboteurs and others. Let me say this for the first time. I receive threat calls,” Mr. Adelabu revealed, highlighting the extent of opposition he faces.
The minister, who assumed office a year ago, also pointed to the existence of cabals and cartels that are allegedly sabotaging the nation’s power infrastructure. “It does not take ordinary people to blow up a power transmission substation with dynamites and pull down a power line. It is an organized crime. It is a cabal and cartel. We are all Nigerians, but we are all Nigerians. We will not run away from ourselves,” he asserted.
Despite these challenges, Mr. Adelabu remains steadfast, noting that he will not be bullied or intimidated, unlike some of his predecessors. “I am the 49th power minister in the country. The past ministers were probably bullied and intimidated in their work,” he remarked, indicating his determination to confront the issues head-on.
Mr. Adelabu also took the opportunity to outline the progress made under his leadership, noting that the country’s electricity generation capacity has increased from 4,000 megawatts (MW) to 5,155 MW within a year. “We have raised the electricity generating capacity from 4,000 MW to 5,155 MW recorded on the 8th of August, 2024. Our target is to hit 6,000 MW with the support of the federal government before the end of this year,” he stated.
Reflecting on the significance of these achievements, the minister noted that it previously took the country over 25 years to achieve an increase of 2,000 MW. “When we resumed as a minister, the electricity generated was 4,000 MW, and within a year, we have added over 1,000 MW,” he explained.
The minister’s remarks underscore the ongoing challenges and achievements within Nigeria’s power sector as the government continues its efforts to enhance electricity generation and distribution across the country.
