On Friday, Nigeria’s electricity grid experienced a substantial decline in power generation, plummeting from 3,366.88 megawatts (MW) at 1:00 PM to 1,517.5 MW by 2:00 PM, and further down to 1,417.85 MW as of 3:00 PM. Data from the National Independent System Operator (NISO) revealed that the number of operational power plants on the grid decreased from 22 at 1:00 PM to 13 by 3:00 PM.
This marks the second significant drop in power supply this year. Notably, just two days prior, the Federal Government celebrated a peak generation of over 5,800 MW, a figure experts criticized as unsustainable since it lasted only a few minutes.
Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has stated that tariff regularization is expected to boost available generation capacity to approximately 7,000 MW. In a statement by his Special Adviser on Strategic Communication, Bolaji Tunji, Chief Adelabu emphasized that adjusting tariffs is crucial for unlocking the sector’s full potential and enhancing both power generation and distribution.
He further explained that to maintain these improvements, the government needs to address tariff shortfalls amounting to ₦1.94 trillion for 2024 and settle legacy debts of ₦2 trillion owed to Generation Companies (GENCOs). Continuing tariff reforms to ensure consumers pay for the energy consumed is deemed essential. Chief Adelabu expressed optimism that with full tariff regularization, available generation capacity could reach 7,000 MW, marking a significant milestone toward a stable and efficient power sector that meets the needs of all Nigerians.
Source: Swifteradio.com
