Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to strengthening and reforming Nigeria’s power sector, emphasizing that energy security remains critical to the nation’s development.
Shettima made this known on Thursday during the commissioning of the new head office of the Nigerian Electricity Liability Management Company (NELMCO) in Abuja. The event brought together key stakeholders in the energy sector, government officials, and industry experts.
In his remarks, the Vice President highlighted the importance of reliable electricity to national growth, noting that no country can fully harness its resources or achieve sustainable development without a stable power supply. He stressed that Nigeria, with its vast human and natural resources, cannot afford to compromise on energy security.
“The promise of every nation rests on its abundant resources, but Nigeria cannot afford to gamble with its energy security,” Shettima said.
He further assured that the Tinubu administration is focused on implementing reforms that will address long-standing challenges in the electricity sector. According to him, the government is prioritizing data-driven decision-making, the intelligent application of technology, and strategic partnerships to improve efficiency and outcomes across the industry.
Shettima commended the leadership and staff of NELMCO for their role in managing liabilities within the power sector, describing their work as essential, though often overlooked.
“This administration remains resolute in its commitment to reform and strengthen the power sector,” he stated. “Permit me to commend the Board, Management, and staff of NELMCO for your dedication. Yours is a task that often goes unnoticed, yet it is foundational to everything we seek to achieve in this sector. You are, in many ways, the custodians of the sector’s credibility.”
NELMCO plays a key role in managing legacy debts and liabilities arising from Nigeria’s electricity sector reforms, particularly those linked to the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN). Its responsibilities include settling obligations that could otherwise hinder investment and operational efficiency in the industry.
The Vice President underscored the significance of addressing these legacy issues, noting that unresolved financial burdens continue to impact the sector’s performance. He described NELMCO as central to the government’s broader efforts to create a more sustainable and investor-friendly power industry.
Speaking further, Shettima said the company represents Nigeria’s determination to confront past challenges in order to secure future opportunities. He stressed that meaningful reform must include deliberate efforts to resolve longstanding structural and financial constraints.
“Whatever we do in investing in the capacity to solve problems that are often invisible but always consequential cannot reasonably be said to be enough unless we provide a lasting solution to these legacy challenges,” he added.
Nigeria’s power sector has faced persistent issues over the years, including inadequate generation capacity, transmission constraints, distribution inefficiencies, and financial shortfalls. These challenges have continued to affect electricity supply to homes and businesses, with implications for economic growth and quality of life.
The Tinubu administration has repeatedly stated its intention to overhaul the sector through policy reforms, increased investment, and improved governance. Analysts say that addressing legacy debts and strengthening institutional frameworks, such as NELMCO, will be crucial to achieving these goals.
The commissioning of the new NELMCO headquarters is seen as part of broader efforts to reposition key institutions within the power sector for greater effectiveness. It also signals a renewed focus on accountability, transparency, and long-term planning in managing Nigeria’s electricity challenges.
Stakeholders at the event expressed optimism that sustained reforms and collaboration between government agencies and private sector players could lead to measurable improvements in power supply.
As Nigeria continues to pursue energy sector reforms, the government’s emphasis on innovation, data, and partnerships is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of electricity generation and distribution in the country.
