Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, is reportedly preparing to resign from his position as he moves to contest the governorship election in Oyo State.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by Bolaji Tunji after a meeting between the minister and Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
During the meeting, Adelabu reportedly presented a briefing on his performance and key reforms implemented in Nigeria’s power sector since his appointment.
Minister expected to step down soon
According to the statement, a key part of the meeting involved the presentation of the National Integrated Electricity Policy and its Strategic Implementation Plan, as well as a review of reforms carried out under Adelabu’s leadership.
These reforms include efforts to stabilise electricity generation, strengthen transmission infrastructure, and implement structural changes across Nigeria’s power value chain.
The statement also indicated that the minister’s resignation could happen soon.
“In view of this development, Chief Adebayo Adelabu is expected to resign his position as Minister of Power in the coming days.”
It further revealed that Bola Ahmed Tinubu acknowledged Adelabu’s contributions to the power sector and expressed support for his political ambition.
“President Tinubu commended the minister for his dedication and the progress recorded, particularly in laying a strong policy foundation for the transformation of the power sector.”
The President was also said to have granted his consent and blessing for Adelabu to pursue the Oyo governorship race.
Earlier resignation reports denied
The latest development comes weeks after earlier reports suggested that Adebayo Adelabu had already resigned.
On March 31, when the deadline set by Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ministers seeking elective office approached, claims circulated that Adelabu had stepped down.
However, on April 1, Bolaji Tunji dismissed the reports, insisting that the minister remained in office at the time.
The new statement now suggests that his resignation may be imminent, with the timing expected to ensure continuity in ongoing reforms within the power sector.
Cabinet reshuffle within Tinubu’s administration
Adelabu’s anticipated exit also comes amid recent cabinet changes in the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Recently, Wale Edun was relieved of his position as Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, with Taiwo Oyedele appointed as his replacement.
Similarly, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa was directed to step down from his role as Minister of Housing and Urban Development.
He has been succeeded by Muttaqha Rabe Darma, who has been named minister-designate.
Ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s power sector
Before becoming Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu served as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
He was appointed by Bola Ahmed Tinubu to spearhead reforms in Nigeria’s electricity sector — a critical area for economic growth.
However, the sector continues to struggle with persistent power outages and grid instability.
For instance, Nigeria’s national grid collapsed on January 23, 2026, with another collapse occurring just five days later, plunging large parts of the country into darkness.
Similar disruptions were recorded throughout 2025, including major grid failures in December, September, and March.
In 2024, the grid reportedly collapsed at least 12 times, highlighting the fragility of the country’s electricity infrastructure.
These issues persist despite government claims that reforms in the sector have attracted about $2 billion in investment and reduced liabilities to around ₦146 billion, raising questions about the pace and effectiveness of ongoing interventions.
