The National Economic Council (NEC) has committed to strengthening the implementation of the National Electrification Strategy to address the persistent collapse of Nigeria’s power grid,leadership reports.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who chairs the NEC, emphasized in a statement by his spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, that access to energy is a fundamental right, not a privilege, describing electricity as the “oxygen of economic growth.”
To tackle challenges in the power sector, the Council established a National Electrification Committee, a decision reached during its 146th meeting on Thursday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The committee, led by Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, aims to enhance state-level engagement with the Electricity Reform Act 2023 and the National Electrification Strategy and Implementation Plan.
Following a presentation by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), NEC acknowledged the need for a reformed and diversified electricity system, noting that empowering states would improve access and affordability, ensuring regional energy needs are met. The committee includes governors Dikko Radda (Katsina), Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Hope Uzodimma (Imo), and Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau). Key federal officials such as the Ministers of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, and Power, along with other stakeholders, will also serve on the committee.
In his address, Vice President Shettima reiterated that reliable energy is essential for economic growth, calling for swift adoption and implementation of the National Electrification Strategy. He emphasized the importance of expanding energy access to rural communities and boosting productivity for small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
“Our blueprints must empower rural areas, expand access, and fuel industrial growth,” Shettima said. “Private-sector-led, distributed renewable energy solutions are critical to increasing electricity access for households and small businesses.”
Shettima also urged the Council to prioritize Nigeria’s creative industries, highlighting their potential to redefine the nation’s economy through global recognition of its arts, culture, and innovation. “Our creative sector is a powerful driver of economic growth, and we must leverage it to create wealth, empower youth, and establish Nigeria as a global hub of cultural excellence,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Council is finalizing its position on state policing, with states yet to submit their views given a one-week deadline to ensure consensus at the next NEC meeting.
Additional highlights of the meeting included updates on federal accounts: Excess Crude Account ($473,754.57), Stabilization Account (₦33,324,135,076.39), and Natural Resources Account (₦26,847,747,874.93).
