Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe has denied reports alleging that he promised to fix Nigeria’s electricity grid within three months.
In a statement issued through his spokesperson, Adeola Adelabu, the minister-designate described the reports as inaccurate and misleading.
The statement explained that comments made by Tegbe during his Senate screening on May 6, 2026, were misrepresented by sections of the media.
According to the statement, Tegbe did not make any commitment to completely fix the nation’s power grid within three months.
It noted that the minister-designate only informed senators that timelines for reforms in the power sector were still being developed and would depend on consultations, diagnostics, and stakeholder engagement.
The statement further clarified that Tegbe indicated that initial measures aimed at stabilising the national grid would commence within his first 100 days in office.
It added that broader structural reforms in the electricity sector could take up to one year to implement.
According to the statement, the planned reforms would focus on restoring confidence in the power sector, addressing gas supply challenges, and expanding electricity metering across the country.
During the Senate screening, Tegbe reportedly assured lawmakers that Nigerians would witness visible improvements in the electricity sector under his leadership.
He also pledged to strengthen grid stability, modernise power infrastructure, improve commercial operations within the electricity market, and ensure greater accountability in the sector.
On electricity tariffs, the minister-designate reportedly stated that reforms would seek to protect vulnerable consumers while sustaining investor confidence in the industry.
The statement added that Tegbe remains committed to transparency and continued engagement with the media as part of efforts to address Nigeria’s electricity challenges.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently nominated Tegbe to head the power ministry following the exit of Adebayo Adelabu during a cabinet reshuffle.
During his Senate screening, the minister-designate outlined plans to tackle key issues affecting the electricity sector, including grid instability, metering shortages, and ageing infrastructure.
