- CIPEN blames politics for Nigeria’s electricity crisis.
- Lack of competent professionals exacerbates power challenges.
- Abraham calls for appointment reforms based on expertise.
- CIPEN introduces new training programs for engineers.
- The need for targeting subsidies amid tariff reforms is emphasized.
Political Challenges are Stifling Nigeria’s Power Sector Progress
Blame for Nigeria’s ongoing electricity crisis can be placed squarely on politics rather than technical issues, according to the Chartered Institute of Power Engineers of Nigeria (CIPEN). During a press briefing in Abuja to celebrate their second anniversary, Israel Abraham, the institute’s President and Chairman-in-Council, emphasized that a mix of poor government appointments and lack of political will from authorities are key blockers to progress in the power sector. The former administration, under President Muhammadu Buhari, initiated CIPEN as a way to provide oversight and professional standards; however, critics argue that political interests still overshadow the necessity for qualified personnel in the industry.
The Path Toward Competence in Key Roles
Abraham pointed out that the core issue is not just the lack of trained professionals, but the urgent need for leadership rooted in expertise. He claims that this political maneuvering significantly hampers any potential remedies for the challenges faced by the electricity sector. The CIPEN president remarked that to truly tackle issues, “when the government wants to solve a problem, it must go to the head of the fish,” meaning that appointments should stem from merit rather than political affiliations. He believes that reforms and investments will remain ineffective unless coupled with strong political backing focused on competence in key roles.
Advancing Service Delivery and Professionalism
In addition to addressing appointments, CIPEN is actively pursuing measures to combat energy poverty across Nigeria. Abraham noted that they have established a tiered licensing framework designed to enhance the training of engineers, reinforcing professionalism that is often called into question. He mentioned an initiative that integrates mandatory education programs, which culminate in professional licensing for power system engineers—aiming to bolster not only credibility but also service delivery overall. Collaboration with academic institutions is also crucial, as this has become a fundamental strategy for fostering research and innovation in the sector; Abraham is keen on ensuring that the pathway towards sustainable development aligns closely with educational standards.
In summary, the Chartered Institute of Power Engineers of Nigeria has laid bare the heavy influence of politics in the electricity crisis that afflicts the nation. Their proposed solutions hinge on appointing technically sound professionals and fostering training initiatives that focus on both competency and ethical standards. Ultimately, they call for strategic support from the media and the public in their mission for a reliable power supply, as they navigate through political barriers that entangle the industry.