NEC Moves to Strengthen National Electrification Strategy to Address Power Grid Failures
The National Economic Council (NEC) has resolved to intensify the implementation of the National Electrification Strategy in response to the persistent collapse of Nigeria’s power grid.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who chairs the Council, emphasized 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, NEC established a National Electrification Committee, led by Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu. The committee will work to deepen state engagement with the Electricity Reform Act 2023 and the National Electrification Strategy. Other members include Governors Dikko Radda of Katsina, Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, Hope Uzodimma of Imo, and Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, as well as key federal officials.
In his address, Vice President Shettima highlighted the importance of reforming the electricity system, stressing that empowering states would increase electricity access and affordability. He also advocated for a private-sector-driven renewable energy approach to boost access for households and small businesses. Shettima also urged the Council to focus on Nigeria’s creative industries, which he described as vital for economic growth and youth empowerment.
According to him, “new technologies have not only amplified the global appeal of our arts, crafts, and culture but also opened up revenue streams and job opportunities for Nigerians.
“Our music, films, art, and cultural heritage are not just global symbols of Nigeria’s soft power but also vital engines of economic growth. We cannot afford to relegate the promise of turning creativity into wealth, empowering our youth, and positioning Nigeria as a hub of innovation and cultural excellence,” he added.
In addition to energy concerns, the Council discussed the establishment of state police, with a decision to finalize states’ positions by the next NEC meeting.
Other significant topics included presentations on the status of Nigeria’s sovereign wealth and special agro-industrial zones, as well as updates from the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) on its latest innovations.
The meeting concluded with calls for state governments to support initiatives that will drive Nigeria’s economic growth, particularly in the energy and industrial sectors.
