FPECN Chairman, Hon. Williams Hails Tinubu’s Electricity Reforms, Calls for Patiience and Collaboration on Sector Decentralization
Oru Leonard
Abuja – Chairman of the Forum of Power and Energy Commissioners in Nigeria and Cross River State Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Hon. Eka Williams, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing reforms in the electricity sector, describing the decentralization of the nation’s power market as a transformative policy capable of delivering sustainable electricity supply across the country.
Speaking during an interactive session with journalists in Abuja, Williams said the administration’s reforms would stimulate investment, improve electricity access, and empower state governments to play a greater role in power generation and distribution.
He noted that the decentralization of the electricity market presents a unique opportunity for state governments, private investors, and corporate organisations to complement the Federal Government’s efforts in addressing Nigeria’s persistent power challenges.
“The President has demonstrated courage by opening up the electricity sector. Solving Nigeria’s power problem should not be the responsibility of the Federal Government alone. State governments, private organisations, and individuals must invest in electricity infrastructure, whether in 100kV, 500kV, or other capacities, particularly in underserved communities. Achieving stable electricity supply requires collective commitment,” he said.
The FPECN Chairman acknowledged that power infrastructure development is highly capital-intensive and requires significant time to deliver results. He therefore appealed to Nigerians to remain patient, stressing that the reforms being implemented by the Tinubu administration are designed to produce lasting benefits rather than short-term gains.
He encouraged states and private investors to begin with modest electricity generation projects that can serve local communities while gradually expanding capacity.
The Commissioner also advocated greater investment in renewable energy, urging governments and investors to harness solar, wind, biomass, and other clean energy sources to expand off-grid electricity access, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Williams further highlighted the Electricity Act 2023 as a landmark legislation that empowers states to participate more actively in electricity generation, transmission, and distribution. He also praised the Minister of Power for inaugurating a nine-member committee to address challenges associated with electricity market decentralization and develop practical solutions for advancing the sector.
He commended state governments that have already initiated independent power projects and called on President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, and other major investors to channel more resources into Nigeria’s power sector to help close the country’s electricity deficit.
According to him, achieving universal electricity access will require sustained collaboration among the Federal Government, state governments, the private sector, development partners, and citizens, adding that shared responsibility remains the key to building a reliable and resilient power sector for Nigeria.
