Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, is preparing to step down from his position after obtaining the approval of President Bola Tinubu to contest the Oyo State governorship.
The move followed a meeting between both men on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where Adelabu presented a detailed account of his performance in the power sector over the past two and a half years.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, Bolaji Tunji, the minister highlighted key reforms and policy strides, including the rollout of the National Integrated Electricity Policy and its Strategic Implementation Plan.
Adelabu was said to have outlined progress made under his leadership, such as efforts to boost power generation, improve transmission infrastructure, and drive reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency across the electricity value chain.
The statement confirmed that the minister would resign in the coming days.
“In view of this development, Chief Adebayo Adelabu is expected to resign his position as Minister of Power shortly,” the statement said.
It added that the timing of his exit was carefully considered to allow continuity in ongoing sector reforms, particularly amid challenges such as reduced generation caused by gas supply issues, pipeline maintenance, and outstanding payments to gas suppliers.
Tunji noted that the minister also used the meeting to secure presidential approval for his planned resignation and governorship ambition.
The development comes against the backdrop of an earlier directive by the president asking political appointees with electoral ambitions to resign on or before March 31.
The statement further disclosed that Adelabu presented a comprehensive report on his stewardship, alongside long-term frameworks such as the Medium-Long Term Integrated Resource Plan for the power sector.
According to the statement, the National Integrated Electricity Policy (NIEP) provides a roadmap for sustainable growth in the sector, focusing on energy security, expanded electricity access, renewable energy integration, and improved system resilience.