Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has disclosed that federal government is determined to address the frequent grid collapses experienced in the nation’s power sector
Chief Adelabu stated this in Ibadan while delivering a lecture at the grand finale of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo state Council 2024 Press week, held at the council’s Press centre Iyaganku.
The Minister pointed out that the nation’s Power sector has revolutionized its system operation with digital platforms for grid monitoring and management as well as the “Advanced Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) ” which enables operators to monitor and address grid performance issues in real time.
” We are working with the World Bank to ensure full deployment of our SCADA system, which once operational, will help in addressing the frequent grid collapses experienced in the sector. Digital tools facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources, like solar and wind, into the grid, advancing Nigeria’s energy transition goals”, he said.
Chief Adelabu added, ” Digital platforms also support micro-grid solutions, making electricity more accessible in rural and underserved areas.Furthermore, digital innovation supports investment and planning through data-driven insights”.
” Additionally, digital platforms for grid monitoring and management have revolutionized system operations. Advanced Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) enable operators to monitor and address grid performance issues in real time. This has reduced outages and improved response times to system failures”.
Speaking further, the Minister hinted that the Presidential metering program is to supply 2 million meters by the first quarter of next year to reduce the estimated billing practices in the sector.
” One of the most notable transformations is the adoption of smart metering systems, which enhance revenue collection by reducing energy theft and providing accurate billing. We are embracing these systems in the Nigerian power sector through the Presidential metering program which aims to supply two (2) million meters by the first quarter of next year to reduce the estimated billing practices in the sector.
On the topic of the lecture “Digital Transformation, Journalism, the Power Sector, and the Future of Nigeria”, the Minister emphasized the importance of digital transformation, saying, ” digital platforms have made it easier for journalists to reach a wider audience and share their stories with the world” .
Commending the media, Chief Adelabu said, ” Beyond the primary responsibility, the media also play a critical role in the survival of democracy by providing information to the citizenry so that they can make responsible and informed decisions rather than acting on ignorance or misinformation” .
” The role of the media as an information provider also serves as a checking or monitoring function which ensures that government and elected representatives of the people uphold their oaths of office and official mandate. This involves publishing detailed reports and agenda on political, social, and economic decisions which should constructively inform the quality of public opinion on governance.
” Accordingly, the media in a democracy is expected to have editorial independence, be financially stable and willingly serve the public interest. And I must confess, the Nigerian media has had a front-row seat in reshaping our society and contributing significantly to the democracy that we are enjoying today. Our hope is that the Nigerian media continues to serve the public interest.
