Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasized that Nigeria cannot achieve meaningful economic development without resolving the ongoing power sector crisis. He made this statement on Thursday while inaugurating two crucial ad-hoc committees at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The committees are focused on National Electrification and Polio Eradication.
Shettima highlighted that addressing the power crisis is key to Nigeria’s industrial future. He pointed to other countries, including Indonesia, India, South Africa, and Uganda, which have overcome energy shortages and are now leading in post-industrial development. He stressed that Nigeria must ensure access to affordable and reliable electricity for its citizens to drive growth.
“We cannot dream of meaningful national economic development without resolving the power sector issues,” Shettima said. He noted that a significant portion of the population—between 40% and 70%—lacks formal access to electricity. However, he expressed confidence that the National Electrification Committee, made up of experienced leaders, would help address these challenges.
The Vice President also acknowledged the persistent problems within Nigeria’s power grid, including frequent system collapses, but remained optimistic about the recent energy sector reforms. These reforms are expected to attract both foreign and local investments, helping to build a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure.
Shettima urged the members of the National Electrification Committee to work together to implement a strategy that would ensure energy security for all Nigerians.
In addition, the Vice President inaugurated the NEC ad-hoc committee focused on Polio Eradication. He called for renewed efforts to eradicate the disease, which has reemerged in certain states, including Kano and Sokoto. Shettima emphasized the need for a long-term approach, including the local production of polio vaccines, to effectively tackle the virus.
The committee members, including state governors and key health stakeholders, were also urged to collaborate closely to combat polio and prevent future outbreaks. Shettima stressed that short-term measures would not suffice, and a more sustainable strategy is required.
Prince Bassey Edet Otu, the chairman of the National Electrification Committee and Governor of Cross River State, outlined the committee’s goals, including ending the recurring grid collapses and improving energy access across states. He assured that the committee would work diligently to achieve these goals and contribute to the nation’s development.
Meanwhile, Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Inuwa Yahaya, head of the Polio Eradication Committee, thanked the Vice President for selecting members with the right expertise and commitment to tackling polio in Nigeria.
The members of both committees include state governors, ministers, and key stakeholders in the energy and health sectors. These committees are expected to address critical issues facing Nigeria’s power sector and public health, with the goal of achieving long-term solutions for the benefit of the nation.
