I am holding all DisCos accountable for their performance – Power Minister

Bayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, has summoned the heads of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, and the Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) for a crucial meeting to discuss the worsening state of power supply. 

Adelabu made this known on his X handle today and disclosed that the Ministry had pressured Generating Companies (GENCOs) to improve their performance, resulting in more power generation of more than 4000 MW.

However, he said the invited Distribution Companies (DisCos) have failed to distribute power adequately despite this milestone. 

“As the Minister of Power, I am deeply concerned 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. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the worsening power supply in their respective regions and to find lasting solutions collectively.

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 Generating Companies (GENCOs) to enhance their performance, resulting in a recent increase in generation to over 4000 MW. Despite this progress, certain distribution companies are failing to distribute the power supplied by TCN adequately. In contrast, vandalism of power infrastructure exacerbates the problem in regions such as Abuja, Benin, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan,” he said.

The Minister added that the Ministry would not tolerate non-performing DisCos, as that would attract license revocation. He also stated that the government plans to settle debts owed to power generation and gas supply companies.

“Moving forward, I am 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 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, which 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.

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