Adelabu Set To Resign as Minister of Power After Meeting With Tinubu

Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, is set to resign from office in the coming days following a high-level meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The development was confirmed in a statement issued by Adelabu’s Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, Tunji Bolaji, after the closed-door meeting held on Tuesday.

According to the statement, President Tinubu commended Adelabu for his performance in office, particularly his efforts in laying policy foundations aimed at reforming Nigeria’s power sector. The president also granted him approval to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“In view of this development, Chief Adebayo Adelabu is expected to resign his position as Minister of Power in the coming days,” the statement noted.

During the meeting, Adelabu presented a comprehensive report on his stewardship over the past two and a half years. He highlighted progress in stabilising electricity generation, strengthening transmission infrastructure, and implementing reforms across the power value chain.

A key component of his presentation was the National Integrated Electricity Policy (NIEP) and its Strategic Implementation Plan (SIP), alongside a Medium- to Long-Term Integrated Resource Plan designed to guide the sector toward energy security, expanded access, and increased renewable integration.

Adelabu explained that the timing of his planned resignation reflects a desire to consolidate ongoing reforms and address critical challenges—particularly fluctuations in power generation linked to gas supply constraints, pipeline maintenance, and outstanding obligations to gas suppliers.

He also expressed appreciation to the president for his support, reaffirming his commitment to Nigeria’s development and the advancement of the power sector.

His expected exit follows weeks of speculation surrounding his political future and compliance with a presidential directive requiring cabinet members with ambitions for the 2027 elections to step down.

Although earlier reports of his resignation in March were dismissed as false, Tuesday’s meeting appears to have clarified his intentions. Adelabu is now expected to join the Oyo State governorship race under the All Progressives Congress (APC), having previously contested in 2019 and 2023.

His resignation is seen as part of broader efforts by the administration to align with electoral guidelines while preparing for upcoming party primaries.

Despite policy strides recorded during his tenure, Adelabu has faced criticism over persistent power supply challenges, tariff increases, and recurring grid instability across the country.