Power Minister Tegbe Assures Grid Recovery Within 48 Hours Amidst Disruptions

The Federal Government has provided clarity on the recent widespread power outages impacting key regions like Lagos, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and two other unspecified areas. According to the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, these disruptions are primarily due to scheduled maintenance activities at the Egbin Power Station, ongoing constraints in gas supply, and deliberate acts of sabotage targeting transmission lines.

In a statement released on Facebook on Friday, Minister Tegbe explained that these factors have significantly reduced the amount of electricity available on the national grid, compelling operators to implement rationing measures in certain locations. He assured the public that the initial set of affected generating units is anticipated to recommence operations within 48 to 72 hours, with subsequent units returning in a phased manner.

Tegbe elaborated, stating, “Planned maintenance at Egbin Power Station and constraints in gas supply to some thermal power stations have reduced the amount of electricity available on the national grid.” He further highlighted that damage to critical transmission infrastructure has hampered the ability of operators to redirect power to various areas. "Sabotage of key transmission lines has also restricted the use of alternative routes to supply some locations, especially Lagos,” the Minister added.

The Ministry of Power, Tegbe confirmed, is actively collaborating with power sector operators to enhance gas deliveries to electricity generation plants and expedite the repair of damaged infrastructure. He extended an apology to all affected households and businesses, promising that the ministry would issue further updates as the power supply situation improves.

This recent explanation follows a directive issued by the Minister on November 4, where he instructed the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO), and electricity distribution companies to urgently address operational issues contributing to the decline in power generation. Separately, NISO had also attributed the shortfall to insufficient gas supplies for thermal plants and reduced water levels in hydroelectric reservoirs. The ongoing outages have also sparked a disagreement between TCN and Ikeja Electric, with TCN refuting the distributor's assertion that grid instability was the root cause of the power cuts.