An energy expert, Dr. Olukayode Akinrolabu, has urged the Federal Government to prioritise transparency and clear communication in the implementation of power sector reforms to rebuild confidence and deliver sustainable improvements in electricity supply.
Speaking in Lagos while reviewing the sector’s outlook for 2026, Akinrolabu said consistent policies, clearly defined timelines and regular public updates were critical to restoring trust among investors, operators and electricity consumers.
He noted that weak communication and policy inconsistencies have continued to undermine reform efforts, stressing that openness would help align stakeholder expectations and attract long-term investment into the sector.
The expert also called for stronger revenue collection mechanisms and a gradual reduction of subsidies, describing financial sustainability as one of the biggest challenges facing the power industry.
According to him, deeper engagement with the private sector and international partners is essential to accelerate reforms and unlock fresh capital.
Akinrolabu identified inadequate gas supply as a major constraint to power generation despite Nigeria’s vast gas reserves, attributing the shortfall to infrastructure gaps and security challenges. He urged the government to scale up gas production and secure critical infrastructure to stabilise supply to generation companies.
He also stressed the urgent need to upgrade transmission infrastructure to reduce technical losses and improve nationwide electricity delivery.
Improved metering, reduced energy theft and stricter enforcement of accountability across the value chain, he said, were crucial to the sector’s survival.
On industry operators, Akinrolabu urged distribution companies to improve billing efficiency, cut technical losses and strengthen customer service, while calling on generation companies to raise capacity utilisation and address persistent maintenance challenges.
He further advocated stricter regulatory oversight, clearer performance benchmarks for operators and increased investment in
