In the face of worsening electricity supply nationwide, the federal government clarified its stance yesterday, asserting that it is actively addressing the power crisis rather than idly standing by. The government highlighted its ongoing efforts to secure a reliable long-term power supply while significantly boosting immediate distribution.
Plans were unveiled to elevate power generation from the current 4,000 megawatts (mw) to 6,500mw within the next three to six months. This announcement was made by Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, during a meeting that summoned the heads of key agencies under his ministry.
Adelabu also cautioned Distribution Companies (Discos) against refusing loads, emphasizing that such actions could lead to the withdrawal of their licenses. He mandated that Discos must be prepared to distribute between 90 and 95 percent of the power supplied to their regions or face regulatory consequences.
Agencies such as the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET), and Rural Electrification Agency (REA) were present at the meeting.
Adelabu mentioned the potential for the government to propose the recapitalization of Discos as part of an upcoming policy release before the end of March. He stressed the importance of additional funding from Discos to enhance infrastructure within the sector.
The minister emphasized the need for technical capacity development within the industry, pointing out that many former National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) staff members are still involved in its operations.
Adelabu urged his subordinates to step up their efforts to provide Nigerians with the necessary power supply, warning that any lackluster performance affecting his position would result in their exit from government alongside him.
Highlighting issues of vandalism and power theft in the sector, Adelabu lamented the detrimental effects on power transmission and distribution assets. He stressed the need for collaboration with security agencies and proposed stringent legislation, including capital punishment for vandals and those involved in power theft.
The minister assured Nigerians that the government was awaiting final figures to initiate the payment of outstanding gas-to-power legacy debts, aiming to encourage increased production and generation.
Adelabu also discussed the government’s commitment to resolving the sector’s underlying issues, including a TCN assurance of over 8,000mw wheeling capacity. He emphasized that Discos failing to take up supplied power could face license revocation.
Calling for TCN to establish a set timeframe for repairing vandalized assets, Adelabu insisted on Discos providing meters to enhance revenue collection. He highlighted government initiatives, including a N75 billion fund to accelerate meter acquisition, aiming to close the metering gap.
Adelabu concluded by assuring Nigerians of the government’s unwavering dedication to finding lasting solutions to the power sector challenges, despite the current difficulties. He emphasized a gradual transition to a cost-reflective tariff system over the next few years, aiming to reduce government subsidies while ensuring sustainability and stability in power generation.