Improve synergy between power value chain operators, expert advises minister
By Yusuf Yunus
Mr Godwin ldemudia, Energy Expert
An energy expert, Mr Godwin ldemudia, has advised the Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu. to improve on the synergy between the power sector value chain operators.
Idemudia gave the advice in an interview with the Business lntelligence (TBI Africa) on Friday in Lagos.
The power sector value chain operators include the Discos, Gencos and Transmission
It would be recalled that President Bola Tinubu on August 21 inaugurated his team of ministers.
The expert, with over three decades experience in the power sector, said that the privatisation of transmission was long overdue.
He said that the minister could carve a niche for himself by doing something different from others before him.
Idemudia, former General Manager, Corporate Communications, Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC), said, “This can only be done by addressing the challenges in the industry, expeciallyby ensuring the provision of super grid a reality.
” My advice for the new minister is not to rush into conclusion, but sleep over any decision he wants to take.
“A lot of “praise singers” would want to hang around him to tell him what he wants to hear. All these might be for their personal benefits.
“Privatisation of transmission is long overdue,” he said.
According to him, power sector is dwindling today because some stakeholders are not sincere.
Idemudia said that until sincerity of purpose and patriotism is placed at the front burner, the nation might be pursuing shadows.
He also advised that the regulatory bodies to step up on the side of the public for efficiency.
“If power is available to all, development is assured.
“The minster should take the bull by the horn and beware of the so called mobile business men who pretends to be experts in the power sector.
“What is wrong with calling past MD/CEOs of all Discos, Gencos and Transmissions to a serious retreat on the way forward.
“I tell you for free that most past executives of the sectors can proffer solutions that can assist the minister,” ldemudia explained.
He advised that funding should be provided and monitored at every step of implementation of projects.
He said that the minister needs about one year to consult and know how complex the power industry is.
He said that the minister should avoid nepotism if he really wants to make his mark, adding that coming from the banking sector can only help with prudence.
“The power sector is so dynamic and very unique.
The expert said that the minister absolutely needs to hear from past executives and be ready for the bitter truth if he wants to succeed.
“My agenda for him is to make sure all customers under the Discos are provided with meters of high integrity.
