Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, is set to step down from his position in the coming days following a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, Bolaji Tunji, after the closed-door meeting on Tuesday.
“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 statement read.
It added that the president granted Adelabu his “consent and blessing” to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 elections.
“In view of this development, Chief Adebayo Adelabu is expected to resign his position as Minister of Power in the coming days,” the statement added.
During the meeting, Adelabu presented a detailed account of his performance in the power sector over the past two and a half years, highlighting efforts to stabilise electricity generation, strengthen transmission infrastructure, and drive reforms across the value chain.
A key aspect of the briefing was the unveiling of the National Integrated Electricity Policy (NIEP), its Strategic Implementation Plan (SIP), and a Medium- to Long-Term Integrated Resource Plan for the sector.
He explained that the NIEP outlines a long-term roadmap for achieving energy security, expanding access to electricity, integrating renewable energy, and building a more resilient power system, while the SIP provides a structured framework for execution.
Adelabu noted that the timing of his planned exit reflects a commitment to addressing critical sector challenges and ensuring continuity of reforms before leaving office. These include tackling declining generation linked to gas supply constraints, pipeline maintenance, and outstanding obligations to gas suppliers.
He also expressed appreciation to the president for his support and reaffirmed his commitment to national development.
His expected resignation follows weeks of speculation regarding his political future and compliance with a directive requiring cabinet members with 2027 political ambitions to step down.
Earlier rumours of his resignation were dismissed by his media aide as false, but Tuesday’s meeting confirmed that his governorship ambition remains active after being temporarily delayed to finalise key policy initiatives.
Adelabu is expected to contest the Oyo State governorship under the All Progressives Congress, returning to the race after previous attempts in 2019 and 2023.
Despite recording policy milestones and investment drives, his tenure has faced criticism over persistent power supply challenges, rising tariffs, and recurring grid instability.
