The National Economic Council (NEC) has resolved to intensify the implementation of the National Electrification Strategy to address the recurring collapse of Nigeria’s power grid.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who chairs NEC, emphasized that access to energy is a fundamental right, describing electricity as the “oxygen of economic growth.”
At its 146th meeting on Thursday, held at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, the council established a committee on national electrification to tackle challenges in the power sector.
The committee, led by Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, will focus on enhancing state-level engagements within the framework of the Electricity Reform Act 2023 and the National Electrification Strategy and Implementation Plan.
The committee comprises governors Dikko Radda (Katsina), Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Hope Uzodinma (Imo), and Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau).
Other members include ministers of Finance (Wale Edun), Budget and Economic Planning (Sen. Atiku Bagudu), and Power (Adebayo Adelabu), along with the Managing Directors of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and the Niger Delta Power Holding Company.
During a presentation by the Managing Director of REA, NEC acknowledged the need for a diversified and reformed electricity system.
The council noted that empowering states would improve electricity accessibility and affordability, ensuring regional energy needs are effectively met.
Vice President Shettima reiterated the critical role of energy in economic development, stating, “The past few months of collapses in our national power grid compel us to reinforce the pace of adopting and implementing the National Electrification Strategy.
Energy access is a fundamental right, not a privilege. It is the oxygen of economic growth.”
He added, “Our blueprints must expand access, empower rural communities, and drive productivity, especially for MSMEs.
A private-sector-led distributed renewable energy generation approach is essential to increasing electricity access for households and small enterprises alike.”
Shettima also highlighted the need for urgent action on key issues such as energy infrastructure, human capital development, industrial innovation, fiscal strategy, and long-term development planning.
On Nigeria’s creative industry, the Vice President underscored its potential to redefine the nation’s economic trajectory.
He noted, “Our music, films, art, and cultural heritage are global symbols of Nigeria’s soft power and vital engines of economic growth.
We must turn creativity into wealth, empower our youth, and position Nigeria as a hub of innovation and cultural excellence.”
Shettima called for leveraging new technologies to boost the global appeal of Nigeria’s arts and crafts while creating jobs and revenue streams for citizens.
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