The Vice President Of Nigeria Kashim Shettima has inaugurated two critical committees under the National Economic Council (NEC): the Ad Hoc Committee on National Electrification and the Ad Hoc Committee on Polio Eradication.
The inauguration took place on Thursday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Shettima emphasized the urgent need to address the nation’s power sector crisis, stating that no meaningful economic development could be achieved without ensuring Nigerians have accessible, available, and affordable energy.
“We must rise above our differences and confront the power crisis head-on. Nigeria has the resources—gas, hydro, and solar—to secure energy for all citizens,” he stated, drawing comparisons with countries like India, Indonesia, and South Africa, which have tackled energy insufficiency.
Focus Areas for National Electrification
Shettima pointed out the nation’s 40-70% electricity deficit and urged the committee to prioritize solving the issues of grid collapses and ensuring resilient energy security. He assured the committee of his support as they embark on drafting a National Electrification Strategy and Implementation Plan.
The committee is tasked with:
- Addressing persistent grid collapses.
- Deepening state-level engagement within the Electricity Reform Act 2023.
- Crafting sustainable electrification strategies.
Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State, the committee chairman, pledged the team’s commitment to achieving credible results aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration.
Renewed Commitment to Polio Eradication
In addition to power reforms, Shettima inaugurated the NEC Ad Hoc Committee on Polio Eradication, urging members to combat the resurgence of the disease in states like Kano and Sokoto.
“We must adopt long-term measures, including the local production of vaccines, to contain and eradicate polio effectively,” the Vice President said.
The committee will focus on proactive strategies, collaborating with key stakeholders, including UNICEF and the Aliko Dangote Foundation, to tackle emerging variants of the virus.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, who leads the Polio Eradication Committee, expressed confidence in the team’s ability to deliver results.
Committee Memberships
National Electrification Ad Hoc Committee
The team includes governors from Katsina, Gombe, Osun, Imo, and Plateau States, as well as the Ministers of Finance, Budget, Power, and other key agencies such as the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).
Polio Eradication Ad Hoc Committee
The members include governors from Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto States, alongside representatives from NPHCDA, UNICEF, and the Aliko Dangote Foundation.