Obi Critiques Nigeria's Power Sector and Solar Reliance

Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate, criticized the Nigerian government's recent decision to disconnect the Presidential Villa from the national power grid, describing it as a troubling signal for Nigeria's struggling power sector. He highlighted that this move contradicts President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's earlier assurances regarding electricity reforms.

Obi pointed out that the reliance on solar power, which is part of a budgetary provision of N10 billion for solar installation in the 2025 budget, is insufficient given the chronic instability of the national grid. He argued that 90% of manufacturers and SMEs depend on alternative power sources due to the unreliable grid, which raises production costs and weakens competitiveness.

Obi stressed that the government should focus on strengthening and expanding the national grid rather than isolating itself from it. He called for leadership that prioritizes the needs of citizens and businesses, emphasizing that the current power supply issues are a central constraint to industrial growth and foreign investment in Nigeria.