…Says affected generating units will begin returning to service within 48–72 hours
The Honourable Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, has assured Nigerians that efforts are underway to restore electricity supply to areas experiencing prolonged outages, with the first affected generating units expected to return to service within 48 to 72 hours of his November 6 update.
The Minister gave the assurance in a statement addressing the recent electricity supply disruptions affecting households and businesses across four states, including Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Tegbe explained that the current supply challenges resulted from planned maintenance at the Egbin Power Station, gas supply constraints affecting some thermal generating plants, and sabotage of critical electricity transmission infrastructure.
According to him, these developments have significantly reduced the volume of electricity available for distribution through the national grid, compelling grid operators to implement load shedding in some locations to manage the shortfall.
The Minister further said that sabotage of key transmission lines has complicated the situation by limiting alternative routes for delivering electricity to affected communities, particularly in Lagos.
Acknowledging the difficulties experienced by electricity consumers, Tegbe expressed concern over the impact of the outages on domestic activities, commercial operations and businesses.
“I am aware of the strain that the current outages have placed on households and businesses,” the Minister stated.
He assured Nigerians that the Ministry was working with relevant operators across the electricity value chain to address the immediate challenges and progressively restore supply.
“My team and I are working to return the affected generating units to service in phases, with the first units coming back online within the next 48 to 72 hours,” Tegbe assured.
Beyond restoring generating capacity, the Minister said efforts are being intensified to improve gas availability to thermal power plants and accelerate repairs to damaged transmission infrastructure.
He emphasised that resolving the disruptions requires coordinated interventions across electricity generation, gas supply and transmission operations to ensure that restored generating capacity can be effectively delivered to consumers.
The Minister appealed for public understanding as technical teams and relevant operators work to stabilise supply, assuring Nigerians that they would provide further information as restoration efforts progress.
“I thank everyone affected for their patience and will provide further updates as supply is gradually restored,” he stated.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to address the immediate supply constraints and improve electricity delivery to affected areas.
