FG unveils power sector communications team
August 21, 2024
The Federal Government of Nigeria has inaugurated the Power Sector Communications Team in a bid to enhance transparency and communication within the power sector.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Power House in Abuja, was presided over by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, who emphasised the importance of effective communication in addressing the sector’s challenges.
The Rural Electrification Agency was well represented in the committe by Mr Chris Gekpe ,Deputy director ,PIO and Mrs Florence ikea ,a Senior Administrative officer also from the Agency.
In his speech, Chief Adelabu described the PSCT as a “strategic initiative designed to bridge the gap between the power sector and the public.”
He noted that the power sector, which is often misunderstood and fraught with challenges, requires a platform for clear and consistent communication to build trust and confidence.
“The PSCT is more than just a team; it is a commitment to excellence in communication,” the Minister stated.
“We envision a Nigeria where electricity is not just a luxury but a fundamental right. To achieve this, we must work together, and effective communication is key,” he added.
The PSCT, as outlined by Adelabu, will focus on translating complex technical issues into plain language, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and creating a positive narrative around the power sector.
The Chairman of the PSCT, Bolaji Tunji, expressed his enthusiasm about the team’s reactivation, noting that while the idea of the PSCT is not new, its revival marks a renewed commitment to addressing communication challenges in the sector.
“It gladdens my heart that the Power Sector Communications Team is being inaugurated today. Our vision is to transform the perception of the power sector by providing consistent, truthful, and insightful information that highlights the ongoing progress and challenges within the sector,” he said.
Tunji highlighted several strategic initiatives that the PSCT will undertake, including a nationwide campaign focused on educating the public on critical power sector issues such as energy theft and vandalisation.
The Chairman also stressed the importance of stakeholder engagement, noting that regular dialogues, workshops, and forums will be organised to foster better understanding and cooperation among all players in the power sector value chain.
“This engagement is crucial in ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned in their efforts to provide reliable and affordable electricity to the Nigerian people,” Tunji stated.
In his remarks, Tunji underscored the need for adequate funding and inclusion of the communication team in all relevant activities within the Ministry and its agencies.
The inauguration of the PSCT is seen as a critical step towards improving transparency and building public trust in Nigeria’s power sector.
The coordinator of the Power Sector Communications Team Magdalene Abang, stated that PSCT is committed to fostering a positive narrative around the power sector and building public trust in the government’s efforts to achieve sustainable energy access.
Abang while appreciating the minister stated that the guidance of the minister has been instrumental to enhancing communication within the sector and promote public understanding of power sector issues.
“We are particularly grateful to the Minister of Power for his visionary leadership and unwavering support for the PSCT. Your guidance and encouragement have been instrumental in our efforts to enhance communication within the sector and promote public understanding of power sector issues.
“We would also like to extend our deepest gratitude to the agency heads present today. Your leadership and dedication to the PSCT’s objectives are truly commendable. Your valuable insights and contributions have significantly enhanced our discussions and helped us develop effective strategies for improving sector communication.” She added.