Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has called for a meeting with Electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) in an effort to find lasting solutions to the erratic power supply in Nigeria.
Adelabu made this known in a statement on X on Wednesday, with the Minister expressing his deep concerns about the deteriorating electricity supply across the country.
“In response to this pressing issue, I have summoned the Chief Executives of Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) and Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), as well as the Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), to a crucial meeting,” he said.
“The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the worsening power supply in their respective regions and to collectively find lasting solutions.”
Adelabu said it is disheartening to witness the decline in power supply despite the concerted efforts to improve the situation.
He added that the Ministry of Power has been exerting pressure on the Generating Companies (GENCOs) to enhance their performance, resulting in a recent increase in generation to over 4000MW.
According to him, despite this progress, certain distribution companies are failing to adequately distribute the power supplied by TCN.
The Minister also said that the vandalism of power infrastructure exacerbates the problem in regions such as Abuja, Benin, Port Harcourt and Ibadan.
He, however, warned that moving forward, he would be committed to holding all distribution companies accountable for their performance.
“Willful non-performance will not be tolerated, and severe consequences, including license revocation, may be imposed.
“Additionally, I have instructed TCN to prioritize repair work on damaged transmission towers and power lines to improve supply in affected regions.”
Adelabu said that during recent supervisory visits to power generating plants, he has witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by the sector.
Plans are, however, underway to settle outstanding debts owed to power generation and gas supply companies, which will alleviate the financial strain and contribute to improved generation levels nationwide.
The Minister further urged electricity consumers to remain patient as the Federal Government works tirelessly to address these issues and provide better service to all Nigerians.
