While it is necessary to criticise those in leadership positions to make them more proactive about issues of governance, it is equally important not to twist narratives or distort facts in an attempt to whip up sentiment. Constructive criticism should be based on truth, not political bitterness or personal bias.
Recently, the Honourable Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, came under attack in a publication by ThisDay online newspaper. The article criticised him for engaging with his people in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election. But rather than focus on his verifiable achievements in office, the piece chose to dwell on distractions and insinuations. It ignored the facts and attempted to paint a picture of a man who has abandoned his duties for politics. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Since his appointment as Minister of Power in August 2023, Adebayo Adelabu has raised the bar in a sector long plagued by inefficiency and underperformance. Under his leadership, Nigeria recorded its highest-ever power generation capacity of 6,003 megawatts (MW) on March 2, 2025. On that same day, the national grid achieved a peak evacuation of 5,801.84 MW and a daily energy output of 128,370.75 MWh. These are not just numbers—they are historic milestones that reflect a new level of performance in the power sector.
This achievement was not accidental. It was the result of deliberate reforms, infrastructure upgrades, and strategic investments. For instance, the Zungeru Hydropower Plant, which had been delayed for years, was finally commissioned and added 550 MW to the national grid. Additionally, 345 MW was restored to previously idle power plants in Benin, Calabar, and Omotosho. These efforts have helped stabilise the grid and improve electricity supply across the country.
As of September 2024, over 40% of Nigerians were enjoying up to 20 hours of electricity daily, thanks to a combination of tariff reforms, improved infrastructure, and better grid management. This is a significant improvement from the past, where many communities barely had 4 to 6 hours of power per day. The introduction of the Band A to E tariff structure has helped ensure that those who receive more stable power pay a fairer rate, while those with less access are protected. This reform has improved market liquidity and encouraged investment in the sector.
One of Adelabu’s most important contributions is the implementation of the Electricity Act 2023, which he championed. This landmark legislation decentralises the power sector, allowing states to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity independently. It also supports a privatised and competitive electricity market, paving the way for cost-reflective tariffs and improved service delivery. Eleven states, including Oyo, have already been granted regulatory autonomy, giving them the power to shape their own energy future. This is a game-changer for industrialisation and rural electrification.
Adelabu has also made significant progress in ending estimated billing. Under his leadership, a ₦700 billion FAAC-backed initiative was launched to deploy 1.1 million meters by the end of 2025, with a target of 2 million meters annually for the next five years. Over 3.2 million smart meters are also being installed under the World Bank DISREP project. These efforts are aimed at ensuring fairness and transparency in electricity billing, while also improving revenue collection for distribution companies.
To improve grid stability, over 70 new transformers were installed between 2024 and early 2025, adding 7,226.5 MVA to the grid and boosting capacity by 700 MW. These upgrades have reduced grid collapses and improved power delivery across the country. In the area of clean energy, the Energizing Education Programme is delivering 100 MW of solar power to 37 universities and 7 teaching hospitals. Another 948 MW of renewable energy is being deployed to rural areas, and 17.5 million Nigerians are expected to benefit from improved electricity access under the $750 million Renewable Energy Scale-Up Project.
While it is normal for opposition voices to criticise those in power, such criticism should be constructive and based on facts. The recent attacks on Adelabu are not only unfair but also lack depth and substance. They ignore the real progress being made in the power sector and focus instead on political distractions. Leadership is about results, and Adebayo Adelabu has delivered. From record-breaking power generation to policy reforms, from improved electricity supply to clean energy expansion, his achievements speak for themselves.
Adebayo Adelabu has shown that it is possible to balance politics and public service. He has not allowed political ambition to distract him from his duties. Instead, he has used his position to bring real change to a sector that affects every Nigerian. As 2027 approaches, it is important that we judge leaders not by rumours or political propaganda, but by their track record. And by every measure, Chief Adebayo Adelabu has proven himself to be a capable, visionary, and results-driven leader.
Let us focus on facts. Let us support leaders who deliver. Let us give credit where it is due.
Written By Dr. Dele Atiba