Power Minister Adelabu threatens to revoke DisCos licenses over worsening electricity supply in Nigeria

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has threatened to revoke the licenses of electricity distribution companies over the continued epileptic power supply nationwide.

Adelabu disclosed in a statement through his X account on Tuesday after meeting with the Chief Executives of Abuja Electricity Distribution Company, AEDC and Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, IBEDC and the Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN,

According to him, it is disheartening to witness a continued decline in power supply despite the concerted efforts to improve the situation.

He said going forward, the government will hold DisCos responsible for non-performance.

Adelabu noted that TCN has been instructed to prioritize repair works on damaged transmission towers and power lines to improve supply in affected regions.

He added that efforts are underway to settle the outstanding debts owed to electricity generation companies.

According to him, “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. This meeting aims to discuss the worsening power supply in their respective regions and collectively find lasting solutions.

“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 4000MW. 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.

“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 prioritize 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 wrote.

DAILY POST recalls that Adelabu summoned AEDC, IBEDC, and TCN CEOs over the worsening power supply four days ago.