Embracing a Brighter Future: Support President Tinubu and Minister Adelabu's Power Sector Reforms

By Abeegunde Omo Igbaye

As Nigeria continues on its path towards economic growth and development, one crucial sector requires attention and support: the power sector. The current electric tariff, though a subject of debate, is a necessary step towards achieving a stable and efficient power supply in the country.

In this article, I will explore the reasons Nigerians must support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Power Minister, Adebayo Adelabu Penkelemesi, as their reforms in the power sector are poised to yield positive results at the end of the day.

The POWER SECTOR'S PRESENT STATE;

Nigeria's power sector has faced numerous challenges, including policies summersault, sabotage, inadequate generation, weak transmission, and poor distribution. The sector's limitations have resulted in frequent power outages, crippling businesses and households alike. To address these issues, the Nigerian government, under the leadership of President Tinubu, has embarked on an ambitious journey to reform the power sector.

THE CURRENT ELECTRIC TARIFF: A NECESSARY STEP;

The current electric tariff, though initially met with resistance, is a crucial component of the power sector reforms. The tariff aims to reflect the true cost of generating and distributing electricity, ensuring that the sector becomes self-sustaining. This move will attract investors, encourage private sectors participation, and reduce the burden on the government as huge amounts of money was been used to subsidize the power that is not either available or clearly inadequate.

REASONS TO SUPPORT PRESIDENT TINUBU AND MINISTER ADELABU'S REFORMS;

1. *Increased Efficiency*: The reforms will lead to a more efficient power sector, reducing waste and losses. With a stable power supply, businesses will thrive, and households will enjoy uninterrupted electricity.
2. *Investment and Job Creation*: The new tariff and reforms will attract local and foreign investors, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.
3. *Improved Infrastructure*: The government's commitment to upgrading and expanding power infrastructure will ensure a more reliable and robust power supply.
4. *Reduced Dependence on Fossil Fuels*: The reforms will promote renewable energy sources, reducing Nigeria's dependence on fossil fuels and contributing to a cleaner environment.
5. *Economic Growth*: A stable power supply will boost economic growth, enabling Nigeria to compete with other nations and achieve its development goals.
6. *Social Impact*: Reliable electricity will improve healthcare, education, and overall living standards, positively impacting the lives of millions of Nigerians.
7. *Government Revenue*: The reforms will generate additional revenue for the government, enabling it to fund other critical sectors and projects.

CONCLUSION

President Tinubu and Minister Adelabu's power sector reforms are bold and crucial steps towards a brighter future for Nigeria. The current electric tariff, though initially challenging, is a necessary component of these reforms. Nigerians must support these efforts, recognizing the long-term benefits of a stable, efficient, and sustainable power sector. Together, we can build a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria, where electricity is a fundamental right, not a privilege.

Let us embrace this transformative journey and support the power sector reforms, paving the way for a brighter future for generations to come.

Abeegunde writes from No. 28, New Market Road, Igbaye, Odo-Otin Local Government of Osun State.