The Nigerian electricity sector grapples with pervasive corruption, spanning political, petty, and private-to-private forms, which impede every stage of the supply chain. These corrupt practices manifest in frequent power outages, limited electricity access, preferential treatment for politically connected investors, and demands for bribes from consumers. Such corruption not only undermines the efficiency of the sector but also poses a significant obstacle to Nigeria's transition to renewable energy sources.
Former Minister of Power, Abubakar Aliyu, addressed these challenges during an interview on Arise TV, shedding light on the issue of corruption and the existence of influential groups within the power sector. Aliyu highlighted a specific instance from his tenure 23 years ago when he signed the Mambilla hydropower project agreement in China. Initially projected to cost 3 billion, the project's cost ballooned to 6 billion after his departure from office. Despite these developments, Aliyu noted that he has not been approached to provide insights into the project's challenges since leaving office.
The case of the Mambilla hydropower project exemplifies the enduring impact of corruption within Nigeria's electricity sector. The significant cost overrun underscores the inefficiencies and lack of transparency that often plague large-scale infrastructure projects in the country. Corruption in the electricity sector not only undermines public trust but also perpetuates a cycle of inefficiency and underdevelopment. The diversion of funds and resources due to corrupt practices hampers efforts to improve infrastructure, expand access to electricity, and promote sustainable energy solutions. The influence of vested interests and powerful groups further complicates efforts to enact meaningful reforms and address systemic issues.
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Hear him: "I'm giving an example, when I was a minister, that was 23 years ago, I was the one that signed the Mambilla hydropower project, in China for the Chinese and that was supposed to be 3 billion. Subsequently you can see the crisis we went through and the increase to 6 billion but since I left office nobody has ever called me to ask what has been here challenge."