Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has officially resigned from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet in order to pursue his political ambition of becoming the Governor of Oyo State.
Adelabu announced his resignation in a letter dated March 26, 2026, addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, where he expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve in the federal government.
In the letter, the former minister thanked the president for the confidence and trust placed in him throughout his tenure as Minister of Power.
“I write with profound gratitude to formally tender my resignation as the Honourable Minister of Power, Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Adelabu stated in the letter.
He noted that it had been a privilege to contribute to reforms within Nigeria’s electricity sector, particularly in support of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Adelabu explained that his decision to step down from the cabinet was necessary for him to fully concentrate on his governorship ambition in Oyo State.
“My decision to resign is to enable me fully pursue my aspiration to contest for the office of Governor of Oyo State,” he wrote.
Political observers say the move allows him to focus his time, resources, and political strategy on the upcoming electoral contest.
The development has already triggered reactions within political circles in Oyo State, particularly within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Adelabu is widely considered one of the leading contenders for the party’s governorship ticket, with supporters pointing to his strong grassroots connections and administrative experience.
Before joining the federal cabinet, Adelabu had an extensive career in both the public and financial sectors.
He previously served as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and was the APC governorship candidate in Oyo State during the 2019 elections.
His supporters describe him as a seasoned administrator with experience in economic management and public service.
His resignation from the Ministry of Power now positions him to fully engage in the political race for Oyo State’s top office.
