- Despite efforts by the Ministry of Power and Gencos, some DisCos were not distributing the power supplied by TCN.
- The ministry pressured Gencos to enhance their performance, resulting in a recent increase in generation to over 4000MW.
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, yesterday, disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Power would withdraw the operating licences of power distribution companies (DisCos) that were not supplying electricity to consumers nationwide intentionally, leading to widespread blackouts in Nigeria.
According to him, despite efforts by the ministry and electricity generating companies (Gencos), some DisCos were not distributing the power supplied to them by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), resulting in abysmal supply since this year.
Since January 2024, power supply across the country has been terrible, as many towns and cities nationwide have been thrown into darkness for weeks due to the lack of electricity. In a post on his official X handle, Adelabu expressed concern over poor electricity supply across the country, stating that this was despite efforts by the government to tackle the challenge.
He, however, pointed out that findings by his ministry revealed that some DisCos were wilfully not distributing electricity to end users in their various franchise areas.
In response to this pressing issue, the minister summoned the Chief Executives of Abuja Electricity Distribution Company and Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, as well as the Managing Director of the TCN, to a crucial meeting.
He disclosed that the purpose of the meeting was to discuss the worsening power supply in their respective regions and to collectively find lasting solutions.
Adelabu wrote, “It is disheartening to witness the decline in power supply despite the concerted efforts to improve the situation. The ministry has been exerting pressure on the Gencos to enhance their performance, resulting in a recent increase in generation to over 4000MW.
“Despite this progress, certain distribution companies are failing to adequately distribute the power supplied by TCN, while vandalism of power infrastructure exacerbates the problem in regions such as Abuja, Benin, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan.”
Adelabu pledged his commitment to holding all DisCos accountable for their performance, noting that the ministry will not tolerate willful non-performance. He said that the ministry may impose severe consequences, including license revocation.
In addition, he instructed TCN to prioritise repair works on damaged transmission towers and power lines to improve supply in affected regions.
“During recent supervisory visits to power generating plants, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by the sector. Plans are underway to settle outstanding debts owed to power generation and gas supply companies.
“This will alleviate the financial strain and contribute to improved generation levels nationwide. I urge electricity consumers to remain patient as we work tirelessly to address these issues and provide better service to all Nigerians,” he added.