By Peter Omopo
Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has resigned from his position to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State, marking the third ministerial exit from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet within 48 hours.
Adelabu, in a resignation letter dated April 22, 2026, said his decision would take effect from April 30 to allow for a smooth transition. He noted that his governorship ambition predates his ministerial appointment and aligns with provisions of the amended Electoral Act, which bars political appointees from contesting elections while in office.
Reflecting on his tenure, Adelabu highlighted reforms in the power sector, including improvements in electricity generation, transmission infrastructure, and revenue collection. He said peak generation rose above 6,000 megawatts during his tenure, while sector revenues increased significantly. However, he acknowledged persistent challenges such as gas supply constraints, infrastructure vandalism, and metering gaps.
He recommended further reforms, including cost-reflective tariffs with targeted subsidies, accelerated metering, and stronger coordination across energy-related ministries to address systemic issues in the sector.
Meanwhile, the Presidency has dismissed reports suggesting that former Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, and former Minister of Housing, Ahmed Dangiwa, were sacked, insisting both officials resigned voluntarily.
According to presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Edun stepped down on health grounds after turning 70 and held a valedictory meeting with the President before his exit. Dangiwa also submitted his resignation, expressing appreciation for the opportunity to serve.
Sources within the Presidency, however, indicated that concerns over budgetary allocations and prioritisation of government spending may have influenced Edun’s departure, particularly complaints from ministries, departments, and agencies over delayed capital releases.
Following the exits, President Tinubu has appointed Taiwo Oyedele as the new Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, tasking him with consolidating ongoing fiscal reforms.
The President has also nominated Muttaqha Rabe Darma as Minister of Housing and Urban Development, subject to Senate confirmation. In addition, he has requested Senate approval for the appointment of Lamido Yuguda as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
The recent developments have reportedly created anxiety within the Federal Executive Council, with some cabinet members expressing concern over the pace and scope of the changes as the 2027 electoral cycle approaches.
