Tinubu Hands Over Electricity Reins to Economic Guru Joseph Tegbe; Former KPMG Boss Set to Replace Adelabu Following Minister’s Resignation for Oyo Gov Race

In a major move to inject “professional horsepower” into Nigeria’s struggling energy sector, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has tapped fiscal expert Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe to lead the Ministry of Power. The announcement, released by the State House today thursday, April 30, 2026, marks the end of Adebayo Adelabu’s tenure and signals a new, strategy-heavy direction for the nation’s electricity reforms.

Adelabu, who has been at the helm of the power sector during its recent milestone climb to 6,000MW, officially stepped down today to focus on his long-held ambition to govern Oyo State in 2027. In his place, the President has chosen a man many consider a “digital-age” reformist. Joseph Tegbe, a former heavyweight at KPMG Africa, is no stranger to the technical and financial hurdles of the sector, having previously advised various government agencies on institutional transformation and investment structuring.

Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that the President’s choice was deliberate. “Mr. Tegbe brings a wealth of experience in governance and infrastructure advisory that is critical for this moment. His task is simple: stabilize the grid and make Nigeria an attractive destination for energy investors,” Onanuga stated. Until this nomination, Tegbe was the point man for the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, where he coordinated billion-dollar bilateral development efforts.

The Senate is expected to begin the screening process early next week. For the average Nigerian, the expectations are sky-high. While the administration celebrates reaching new generation peaks, the “last mile” delivery to homes and factories remains a challenge. Tegbe’s entry is being viewed as a “technical rescue mission” to ensure that the “Renewed Hope” power agenda moves from paper to the sockets of every household.

As the 2027 political cycle begins to influence cabinet movements, the Presidency is making it clear that performance remains the only currency. For Joseph Tegbe, the “honeymoon period” will be non-existent as he prepares to take over one of the most scrutinized portfolios in the Federal Executive Council.