₦airaland Forum

Where is the light? Nigerians knock Adelabu as two weeks’ promise on electricity fails

•Why N3.3trn won’t give you power supply — Experts

…Cite failed promises, disagreement over size of debt

Two weeks after Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, assured citizens of imminent relief from persistent outages, a cross-country check suggests that for many households and businesses, the reality has barely changed.


This came as recent announcement by President Bola Tinubu of the approval of N3.3 trillion for the settlement of outstanding debt in the nation’s power sector has been received with mixed feelings.

While some experts believe the statement in its entirety, others question its authenticity, describing it as a recurring narrative that has become a trend.

Adelabu had, on March 24, while addressing the media in Abuja, publicly apologised for the wave of blackouts that swept across the country, admitting that the situation had worsened living conditions at a time of intense heat.

He acknowledged the strain on homes, schools and industries, attributing the disruption largely to gas supply constraints and technical issues beyond the government’s immediate control.

“I want to apologise to Nigerians… for this temporary issue that is leading to hardship being experienced,” the Minister said, while promising that “two weeks from now, we should start seeing improvements in supply.”

That deadline expired on Friday.

But from Abuja to Lagos, and across several states, many Nigerians say the promised improvement has yet to materialise.

Worsening situation

In Utako, a district in Abuja, residents described a pattern of prolonged outages and brief, inconsistent supply.

Ekwa Mbuk, one of the affected residents, expressed frustration over what he called a worsening situation.

“So why are we at Utako District subjected to darkness for another night? The heat is sickening. This constant power outage is messing up the quality of life of your customers. Do you care? Please give us light,” he said, in a complaint directed at the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company.

He added that the power supply in the area had been erratic, with entire days passing without electricity, followed by only a short period of restoration.

“Since last night, no light… we’ve had only an hour of light. Are we getting what we’re paying for?” he asked.

Classifications

Similar sentiments echoed in Lagos, where Iyke Oscar questioned the rationale behind tariff classifications that promised extended supply.

“Why are we still paying as Band A, if we can’t have light up to 24 hours?” he asked, pointing to the growing disconnect between billing structures and actual service delivery.

Familiar pattern

Across the states, the accounts follow a familiar pattern.

In Delta, Abednego Emonena dismissed the situation bluntly: “Electricity in Nigeria is still a joke.”

In Ondo, Akin Muyiwa said residents in Akure had all but given up on the expectation of stable supply. “We don’t know what’s called electricity,” he remarked.


From Imo, Mary Blossom reported that parts of Owerri had experienced a near-total blackout for weeks. “For the past four weeks, no light,” she said.

In Edo State, Diana Efe described outages stretching into days. “This is the fifth day we haven’t seen electricity since rain fell,” she noted, while another resident, Aino, said communities were left with barely two hours of supply daily.

Elsewhere, the frustration is tinged with resignation. In Ekiti, Mr. Awo Adekunle summed it up: “No light, we just dey pay bill.”

Cynthia in Ogun State pointed to a pattern tied to weather conditions. “Once rain falls, no light for the next 12 hours, sometimes 24 hours,” she said, suggesting that infrastructure fragility continues to worsen outages.

For some, the situation has become almost surreal.


Abolanle Ajirowo wondered aloud whether official assurances referred to a different reality. “Maybe there’s another Nigeria we don’t know about,” she said.

Structural problem

Behind these reactions lies a deeper structural problem. Nigeria’s electricity generation has continued to hover around 4,000 megawatts, far below what is required for a population of over 200 million. Per capita electricity consumption remains between 144 and 165 kilowatt-hours, according to data from the International Energy Agency, placing the country well below the African average of 617 kWh.

The implications are visible in daily life. With grid supply unreliable, households and businesses are forced to rely on alternatives such as generators, inverters and solar systems. These come at significant cost, effectively creating a parallel, self-funded energy system.

Power bank rental

“Electricity remains unreliable, forcing people to depend on generators, inverters, or solar setups,” said Obinna Eze. “So you pay for electricity, even when it’s not consistent.”

In a sign of how deeply the crisis has reshaped everyday economics, new micro-businesses have emerged to fill the gap.

Power bank rentals, for instance, are now available in parts of Kaduna, Sokoto, Kano, Plateau, Niger, Nasarawa, Delta, Edo, Anambra, Imo and Lagos, offering temporary relief for phone charging and small devices at daily or weekly rates.

For now, the Federal Government maintains that improvements are on the way, tied to the repair of critical gas infrastructure and enforcement of supply obligations among producers.

Adelabu had expressed confidence that restored gas flow, particularly from facilities linked to major operators, would stabilise generation.
O
Yet, as the deadline he set passed without clear nationwide improvement, public patience appears to be thinning.

What remains is a familiar cycle of promise and delay, with millions of Nigerians still waiting, often in the dark, for a power sector turnaround that has long been anticipated but remains elusive.

Experts speak on N3.3trillion for power sector

Meanwhile, the announcement by Tinubu of the approval of N3.3 trillion for the settlement of outstanding debt in the power sector has been received with mixed feelings.

While some experts believe the statement in its entirety, others question its authenticity, describing it as a recurring narrative that has become a trend.

Sunday Vanguard findings reveal that prior to the latest declaration by the President, Adelabu, the Minister of Power, had announced the disbursement of the same amount in 2024, while the Debt Management Office (DMO) had already securitised about N4.5 trillion for the settlement of the same power sector debt.

Thus, some analysts view statements from the Presidency as mere sound bites aimed at scoring political points at the expense of Nigerian citizens, their businesses, and the economy at large.

While Nigerians suffer epileptic power supply, an estimated N40 trillion is lost annually due to poor electricity supply.

The Nigerian Independent System Operator, an agency of the Federal Government, had, a couple of weeks ago in a report, stated that persistent outages continue to impose high costs on businesses and households, many of which are forced to generate their own electricity.

According to the report, reliable electricity remains one of Nigeria’s most important economic priorities, stressing that power outages cost the country up to $29 billion annually.

Converted at the prevailing exchange rate of N1,385 to a dollar, this translates to roughly N40.1 trillion in yearly losses to the economy.

The operator added that the burden extends across all sectors, noting that businesses, manufacturers, and households spend billions each year generating their own electricity.

The shortfall in supply has continued to deepen electricity shortages, pushing homes and businesses to rely increasingly on alternative energy sources amid rising operating costs and harsh weather conditions.

The trajectories

Adelabu, on March 29, 2024, was quoted as saying on his Facebook page: “During my recent visit to the Egbin Power Plant, I reiterated that we have conducted a thorough diagnosis of the challenges currently facing our power sector in Nigeria. These challenges range from infrastructure limitations to supply chain constraints, and we are taking urgent action to address them and enhance power supply across the country.

“To this end, the Federal Government is fully committed to implementing proactive measures. Starting in April, we will prioritise the settlement of outstanding debts owed to power plants like Egbin Power. By doing so, our goal is to provide incentives for the continuous operation of these crucial facilities and to enhance their overall efficiency.”

Also, on October 7, 2025, the Minister was quoted as saying, “To stabilise the market, Mr. President has approved a N4 trillion bond to clear verified GenCo and gas supply debts.”

However, the Presidential Power Sector Financial Reforms Programme follows Tinubu’s approval of a N3.3 trillion payment plan to settle legacy debts accumulated between February 2015 and March 2025.

According to a release last Sunday, implementation has begun, with 15 power plants signing settlement agreements totalling N2.3 trillion.

The Federal Government said it had already raised N501 billion to fund these payments.

Of the amount, N223 billion was said to have been disbursed, with further payments underway.

Stakeholders, in the meantime, have questioned whether earlier approvals were effectively implemented or merely political statements, noting that three years down the line, no significant actions have been taken, while records of grid collapses continue to plague the country’s national grid.

Presidency report

A document tagged, ‘A Financial Reset for Nigeria’s Power Sector: The Presidential Financial Reforms Programme (2015-2026) – a chronological overview of efforts to resolve the power sector’s liquidity crisis and transition to a sustainable market-based framework,’ shows the origins of the N4.7 trillion debt, outlining a decade of tariff shortfalls, liquidity constraints, and structural inefficiencies which led to massive outstanding obligations across the power value chain.

It states: “The vicious cycle of liquidity shortfall—unpaid debts to GENCOs leading to arrears for gas suppliers—has constrained generation and rendered the sector non-bankable, culminating in a N4.7 trillion deficit.”

It notes that in 2024–2025, despite the N4.7 trillion claimed by GENCOs, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) established a N4 trillion cap, stating: “The FEC approved a settlement framework with a prudential ceiling of N4 trillion to ensure fiscal discipline.”

However, on its verification and negotiated settlement deal, the report said: “N3.3 trillion: The final negotiated figure, after rigorous verification, reduced the initial N4.7 trillion claim by 30 per cent through the removal of inflated, unsupported, or non-compliant charges.

“The market-based settlement mechanism includes cost-reflective tariffs, accelerated metering, and improved operational efficiency to prevent future debt accumulation.”

GENCOs reality, denial

While some GENCOs expressed confidence in the programme, others argued otherwise, noting that past experiences may have eroded trust in the system.

Speaking on the development and the impact of the N3.3 trillion on the power sector, Executive Director of the Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC), Dr. Joy Ogaji, said: “We only have it on paper.

“Yes, N3.3 trillion is what the government said it has approved, but we do not have details of what it covers or whether it includes the period from 2015 to 2024.

“The news we all have is political. Claims that it is up to date are questionable because reconciliation of invoices from 2015 to March 2025 has not been completed.

“The invoice for March 2025 was not included, and possibly February 2025 was also excluded due to the 45-day billing cycle.”

On solutions, another operator who spoke anonymously said: “Power sector issues need to be categorised.

“Yes, this is a pre-election period, so it is easy for the government to push liquidity solutions for compiled debts.

“But we must not deny that the debt claimed by GENCOs exists.

“All contractual terms, including interest on delayed payments, must be honoured.

“The GENCOs took loans when the exchange rate was about N155 to the dollar, but today it is over N1, 300. Who bears the difference?”

The source also pointed to a lack of transparency in billing and collection systems, calling for reforms and stronger oversight.

Others see things differently

Another source said: “I believe the government is sincere. The money will be paid, and fidelity to contracts is important. Government-imposed haircuts should not become the norm.”

Also reacting, energy economist and Executive Director, Emmanuel Egbigah Foundation, Prof. Wumi Iledare, said: “The power sector is not just underperforming—it is financially strained.

“Over N4 trillion in legacy debt continues to choke the entire value chain.

“What’s worse is that past solutions have been mostly stopgaps, addressing liquidity issues without fixing structural problems.


“At the core are non-cost-reflective tariffs, weak contract enforcement, and poor institutional coordination.

“The result is a cycle of debt recycling, not resolution.”

Electricity becoming a campaign issue – CPPE

For his part, Dr. Muda Yusuf, Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), said: “This is a pre-election period, and electricity is becoming a campaign issue. The government will likely make strong efforts to fulfill its promises.

“However, unless structural challenges are addressed, the sector may relapse. The key is ensuring the sector generates its own liquidity and attracts capable investors. Tariff reform is inevitable, though it must be gradual to avoid undue hardship.”

A step in the right direction – Independent Power

However, reacting, Managing Director of First Independent Power Limited, Mr. Seyi Sobogun, described the development as a critical step toward restoring stability.

“We welcome the progress made so far. Addressing legacy debts is crucial to improving system performance,” he said.

He noted that the N501 billion bond issuance, which was fully subscribed, reflects growing market confidence.

“We remain committed to working with stakeholders to strengthen the sector and improve electricity supply nationwide,” he added

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/04/where-is-the-light-nigerians-knock-adelabu-as-two-weeks-promise-on-electricity-fails/?

Only idiots believe lies from this government.
The government does not care, you all are on your own. They only care about 2027 election.

A criminal government headed by a criminal and for criminals, trust tinubu and these gang of thieves he assembled to your peril

There has been some improvement in my area in lagos for over 2 weeks now,there is power as I speak now.....ifako ijaiye, lagos.

Lithiumite:
There has been some improvement in my area in lagos for over 2 weeks now,there is power as I speak now.....ifako ijaiye, lagos.

Improvement, as in 24hrs electricity supply in your area?

Though some Nigerians believe they don't deserve 24hrs electricity supply.

APC has been in government for 11 years and still can't get the power sector right!

Nigerians manage! You will feel it like you want to die but you will not die.

Usmanovic95:
Nigerians manage! You will feel it like you want to die but you will not die.

Is that clear? Yes sir!!!
shout egbooooonnnn😁😁

Lol…the guy is such a failure that he was even scared to contest for oyo state gubernatorial election…worst minister of power ever…fashola na hero for where this one dey

Notorious agbero from a gullible party God help the poor masses

When a whole mtn network suddenly became the worst network that as soon as power goes off network goes too, thats when i knew we are cooked.. i will do anything to bring back Buhari govt, man was a hero in my books.

Tinubu is a master of failure. He assembled people that will deliver rubbish.

Lithiumite:
There has been some improvement in my area in lagos for over 2 weeks now,there is power as I speak now.....ifako ijaiye, lagos.

I wonder what you people gain in lying on social media


Looking over Lagos from an airplane at night is not different from looking over Amazon forest at night also

Adelabu is a foolish foolish person..who Government won punish, na them dem dey give minister of power 😂😆... Mission impossible

The President said go and use Solar but you people are still looking for Nepal light.
Nigerians no dey too like truth.

Lithiumite:
There has been some improvement in my area in lagos for over 2 weeks now,there is power as I speak now.....ifako ijaiye, lagos.

Don’t mind the unfortunate Nigerians knocking Adelabu Pẹnkẹlẹmẹs, instead of aligning themselves with the 75% of the population that has adequate electricity, like you have done.

Na so.
The man is waiting for the rains over the Futa Jallon hills to cascade down the River Niger and fill up the paddocks of Kainji and Shiroro dams to 'stabilize' the grid with blue energy.

Unfortunately his MET office consultants must have misled him on the weather. So folks, just give the magician time to conjure stable power for you.

After all, according to Kamal Khan, 'Its all in a wrist..'

Lithiumite:
There has been some improvement in my area in lagos for over 2 weeks now,there is power as I speak now.....ifako ijaiye, lagos.

I ask again
What do u gain in lying to yourself?
U people need to separate politics from governance
If we call out the govt together and they fix the light, it will benefit you and your household
Stop defending failures

Osiris12:
I wonder what you people gain in lying on social media


Looking over Lagos from an airplane at night is not different from looking over Amazon forest at night also

omo this one weak me oh. I mean ...

[quote author=Ofu.naofu post=139070562]Where is the light? Nigerians knock Adelabu as two weeks’ promise on electricity fails

•Why N3.3trn won’t give you power supply — Experts

…Cite failed promises, disagreement over size of debt

Two weeks after Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, assured citizens of imminent relief from persistent outages, a cross-country check suggests that for many households and businesses, the reality has barely changed.


This came as recent announcement by President Bola Tinubu of the approval of N3.3 trillion for the settlement of outstanding debt in the nation’s power sector has been received with mixed feelings.

While some experts believe the statement in its entirety, others question its authenticity, describing it as a recurring narrative that has become a trend.

Adelabu had, on March 24, while addressing the media in Abuja, publicly apologised for the wave of blackouts that swept across the country, admitting that the situation had worsened living conditions at a time of intense heat.

He acknowledged the strain on homes, schools and industries, attributing the disruption largely to gas supply constraints and technical issues beyond the government’s immediate control.

“I want to apologise to Nigerians… for this temporary issue that is leading to hardship being experienced,” the Minister said, while promising that “two weeks from now, we should start seeing improvements in supply.”

That deadline expired on Friday.

But from Abuja to Lagos, and across several states, many Nigerians say the promised improvement has yet to materialise.

Worsening situation

In Utako, a district in Abuja, residents described a pattern of prolonged outages and brief, inconsistent supply.

Ekwa Mbuk, one of the affected residents, expressed frustration over what he called a worsening situation.

“So why are we at Utako District subjected to darkness for another night? The heat is sickening. This constant power outage is messing up the quality of life of your customers. Do you care? Please give us light,” he said, in a complaint directed at the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company.

He added that the power supply in the area had been erratic, with entire days passing without electricity, followed by only a short period of restoration.

“Since last night, no light… we’ve had only an hour of light. Are we getting what we’re paying for?” he asked.

Classifications

Similar sentiments echoed in Lagos, where Iyke Oscar questioned the rationale behind tariff classifications that promised extended supply.

“Why are we still paying as Band A, if we can’t have light up to 24 hours?” he asked, pointing to the growing disconnect between billing structures and actual service delivery.

Familiar pattern

Across the states, the accounts follow a familiar pattern.

In Delta, Abednego Emonena dismissed the situation bluntly: “Electricity in Nigeria is still a joke.”

In Ondo, Akin Muyiwa said residents in Akure had all but given up on the expectation of stable supply. “We don’t know what’s called electricity,” he remarked.


From Imo, Mary Blossom reported that parts of Owerri had experienced a near-total blackout for weeks. “For the past four weeks, no light,” she said.

In Edo State, Diana Efe described outages stretching into days. “This is the fifth day we haven’t seen electricity since rain fell,” she noted, while another resident, Aino, said communities were left with barely two hours of supply daily.

Elsewhere, the frustration is tinged with resignation. In Ekiti, Mr. Awo Adekunle summed it up: “No light, we just dey pay bill.”

Cynthia in Ogun State pointed to a pattern tied to weather conditions. “Once rain falls, no light for the next 12 hours, sometimes 24 hours,” she said, suggesting that infrastructure fragility continues to worsen outages.

For some, the situation has become almost surreal.


Abolanle Ajirowo wondered aloud whether official assurances referred to a different reality. “Maybe there’s another Nigeria we don’t know about,” she said.

Structural problem

Behind these reactions lies a deeper structural problem. Nigeria’s electricity generation has continued to hover around 4,000 megawatts, far below what is required for a population of over 200 million. Per capita electricity consumption remains between 144 and 165 kilowatt-hours, according to data from the International Energy Agency, placing the country well below the African average of 617 kWh.

The implications are visible in daily life. With grid supply unreliable, households and businesses are forced to rely on alternatives such as generators, inverters and solar systems. These come at significant cost, effectively creating a parallel, self-funded energy system.

Power bank rental

“Electricity remains unreliable, forcing people to depend on generators, inverters, or solar setups,” said Obinna Eze. “So you pay for electricity, even when it’s not consistent.”

In a sign of how deeply the crisis has reshaped everyday economics, new micro-businesses have emerged to fill the gap.

Power bank rentals, for instance, are now available in parts of Kaduna, Sokoto, Kano, Plateau, Niger, Nasarawa, Delta, Edo, Anambra, Imo and Lagos, offering temporary relief for phone charging and small devices at daily or weekly rates.

For now, the Federal Government maintains that improvements are on the way, tied to the repair of critical gas infrastructure and enforcement of supply obligations among producers.

Adelabu had expressed confidence that restored gas flow, particularly from facilities linked to major operators, would stabilise generation.
O
Yet, as the deadline he set passed without clear nationwide improvement, public patience appears to be thinning.

What remains is a familiar cycle of promise and delay, with millions of Nigerians still waiting, often in the dark, for a power sector turnaround that has long been anticipated but remains elusive.

Experts speak on N3.3trillion for power sector

Meanwhile, the announcement by Tinubu of the approval of N3.3 trillion for the settlement of outstanding debt in the power sector has been received with mixed feelings.

While some experts believe the statement in its entirety, others question its authenticity, describing it as a recurring narrative that has become a trend.

Sunday Vanguard findings reveal that prior to the latest declaration by the President, Adelabu, the Minister of Power, had announced the disbursement of the same amount in 2024, while the Debt Management Office (DMO) had already securitised about N4.5 trillion for the settlement of the same power sector debt.

Thus, some analysts view statements from the Presidency as mere sound bites aimed at scoring political points at the expense of Nigerian citizens, their businesses, and the economy at large.

While Nigerians suffer epileptic power supply, an estimated N40 trillion is lost annually due to poor electricity supply.

The Nigerian Independent System Operator, an agency of the Federal Government, had, a couple of weeks ago in a report, stated that persistent outages continue to impose high costs on businesses and households, many of which are forced to generate their own electricity.

According to the report, reliable electricity remains one of Nigeria’s most important economic priorities, stressing that power outages cost the country up to $29 billion annually.

Converted at the prevailing exchange rate of N1,385 to a dollar, this translates to roughly N40.1 trillion in yearly losses to the economy.

The operator added that the burden extends across all sectors, noting that businesses, manufacturers, and households spend billions each year generating their own electricity.

The shortfall in supply has continued to deepen electricity shortages, pushing homes and businesses to rely increasingly on alternative energy sources amid rising operating costs and harsh weather conditions.

The trajectories

Adelabu, on March 29, 2024, was quoted as saying on his Facebook page: “During my recent visit to the Egbin Power Plant, I reiterated that we have conducted a thorough diagnosis of the challenges currently facing our power sector in Nigeria. These challenges range from infrastructure limitations to supply chain constraints, and we are taking urgent action to address them and enhance power supply across the country.

“To this end, the Federal Government is fully committed to implementing proactive measures. Starting in April, we will prioritise the settlement of outstanding debts owed to power plants like Egbin Power. By doing so, our goal is to provide incentives for the continuous operation of these crucial facilities and to enhance their overall efficiency.”

Also, on October 7, 2025, the Minister was quoted as saying, “To stabilise the market, Mr. President has approved a N4 trillion bond to clear verified GenCo and gas supply debts.”

However, the Presidential Power Sector Financial Reforms Programme follows Tinubu’s approval of a N3.3 trillion payment plan to settle legacy debts accumulated between February 2015 and March 2025.

According to a release last Sunday, implementation has begun, with 15 power plants signing settlement agreements totalling N2.3 trillion.

The Federal Government said it had already raised N501 billion to fund these payments.

Of the amount, N223 billion was said to have been disbursed, with further payments underway.

Stakeholders, in the meantime, have questioned whether earlier approvals were effectively implemented or merely political statements, noting that three years down the line, no significant actions have been taken, while records of grid collapses continue to plague the country’s national grid.

Presidency report

A document tagged, ‘A Financial Reset for Nigeria’s Power Sector: The Presidential Financial Reforms Programme (2015-2026) – a chronological overview of efforts to resolve the power sector’s liquidity crisis and transition to a sustainable market-based framework,’ shows the origins of the N4.7 trillion debt, outlining a decade of tariff shortfalls, liquidity constraints, and structural inefficiencies which led to massive outstanding obligations across the power value chain.

It states: “The vicious cycle of liquidity shortfall—unpaid debts to GENCOs leading to arrears for gas suppliers—has constrained generation and rendered the sector non-bankable, culminating in a N4.7 trillion deficit.”

It notes that in 2024–2025, despite the N4.7 trillion claimed by GENCOs, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) established a N4 trillion cap, stating: “The FEC approved a settlement framework with a prudential ceiling of N4 trillion to ensure fiscal discipline.”

However, on its verification and negotiated settlement deal, the report said: “N3.3 trillion: The final negotiated figure, after rigorous verification, reduced the initial N4.7 trillion claim by 30 per cent through the removal of inflated, unsupported, or non-compliant charges.

“The market-based settlement mechanism includes cost-reflective tariffs, accelerated metering, and improved operational efficiency to prevent future debt accumulation.”

GENCOs reality, denial

While some GENCOs expressed confidence in the programme, others argued otherwise, noting that past experiences may have eroded trust in the system.

Speaking on the development and the impact of the N3.3 trillion on the power sector, Executive Director of the Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC), Dr. Joy Ogaji, said: “We only have it on paper.

“Yes, N3.3 trillion is what the government said it has approved, but we do not have details of what it covers or whether it includes the period from 2015 to 2024.

“The news we all have is political. Claims that it is up to date are questionable because reconciliation of invoices from 2015 to March 2025 has not been completed.

“The invoice for March 2025 was not included, and possibly February 2025 was also excluded due to the 45-day billing cycle.”

On solutions, another operator who spoke anonymously said: “Power sector issues need to be categorised.

“Yes, this is a pre-election period, so it is easy for the government to push liquidity solutions for compiled debts.

“But we must not deny that the debt claimed by GENCOs exists.

“All contractual terms, including interest on delayed payments, must be honoured.

“The GENCOs took loans when the exchange rate was about N155 to the dollar, but today it is over N1, 300. Who bears the difference?”

The source also pointed to a lack of transparency in billing and collection systems, calling for reforms and stronger oversight.

Others see things differently

Another source said: “I believe the government is sincere. The money will be paid, and fidelity to contracts is important. Government-imposed haircuts should not become the norm.”

Also reacting, energy economist and Executive Director, Emmanuel Egbigah Foundation, Prof. Wumi Iledare, said: “The power sector is not just underperforming—it is financially strained.

“Over N4 trillion in legacy debt continues to choke the entire value chain.

“What’s worse is that past solutions have been mostly stopgaps, addressing liquidity issues without fixing structural problems.


“At the core are non-cost-reflective tariffs, weak contract enforcement, and poor institutional coordination.

“The result is a cycle of debt recycling, not resolution.”

Electricity becoming a campaign issue – CPPE

For his part, Dr. Muda Yusuf, Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), said: “This is a pre-election period, and electricity is becoming a campaign issue. The government will likely make strong efforts to fulfill its promises.

“However, unless structural challenges are addressed, the sector may relapse. The key is ensuring the sector generates its own liquidity and attracts capable investors. Tariff reform is inevitable, though it must be gradual to avoid undue hardship.”

A step in the right direction – Independent Power

However, reacting, Managing Director of First Independent Power Limited, Mr. Seyi Sobogun, described the development as a critical step toward restoring stability.

“We welcome the progress made so far. Addressing legacy debts is crucial to improving system performance,” he said.

He noted that the N501 billion bond issuance, which was fully subscribed, reflects growing market confidence.

“We remain committed to working with stakeholders to strengthen the sector and improve electricity supply nationwide,” he added

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/04/where-is-the-light-nigerians-knock-adelabu-as-two-weeks-promise-on-electricity-fails/?[/quote]Do NOT depend on one source of energy supply. A Mix of energy sources is the key. Period.

Osiris12:
I wonder what you people gain in lying on social media

Looking over Lagos from an airplane at night is not different from looking over Amazon forest at night also

Ha...Amazon jungle ke....hmmm....they will come for you.

Me. President went to commission gas powered station in Bayelsa while still owing 3 abi 5 trillion naira to Gasco's and you just wonder....what kind of tenant throws a birthday party on his landlords compound while owing rent.... Nigeria blues...

Reference:
Na so.
The man is waiting for the rains over the Futa Jallon hills to cascade down the River Niger and fill up the paddocks of Kainji and Shiroro dams to 'stabilize' the grid with blue energy.

Unfortunately his MET office consultants must have misled him on the weather. So folks, just give the magician time to conjure stable power for you.

After all, according to Kamal Khan, 'Its all in a wrist..'

Although I don't understand some of the terminologies you used, I also believe he was banking on the fact that by now rain would have started falling which will lead to increased power supply as usual... Unfortunately, the rains have delayed

Mindlog:
Improvement, as in 24hrs electricity supply in your area?

Though some Nigerians believe they don't deserve 24hrs electricity supply.

APC has been in government for 11 years and still can't get the power sector right!

All Promises Cancelled, APC has failed to deliver on power despite removing subsidy TWICE in 2016 and 2023, to save trillions of Naira and billions of dollars respectively, while ridiculously borrowing more than PDP did, when we had cheaper petrol, better life and less insecurity.

How many billions of dollars do you think A-looter Propaganda Conmen, APC’s Tinubu and Buhari have spent to get us darkness in the past 11 years

Fixing power has suddenly become rocket science to those who said it wasn't

Thank God other countries have gone way beyond rocket science as witnessed by the recent Artemis II space travel else we'd have thought constant power to be a myth and an impossibility

AlphaTaikun:
Do NOT depend on one source of energy supply. A Mix of energy sources is the key. Period.

Abi. We have been telling them since.
Those we praise and worship as leaders have not realized this until they are neck deep in debt.

We continue to say this.
GAS TO ELECTRICITY IS TOO, TOO, TOO EXPENSIVE for a developing country such as ours.

Export your gas to wealthy nations and use the proceeds to invest in cheaper energy sources.

There are hundreds of coal power plants going out of circulation in the Americas, Europe and Asia because of climate change and a new green world. Buy them at a cheap and fire them back up to kick start your own industrial revolution.

If the west harasses you then ask them for grants to set up your own green economy. There are thousand and thousands of acres of unsuitable land all over Nigeria you can turn to solar power parks like the Chinese are doing. They have recently cut export subsidies on solar wares so bring them into to manufacture here.

Tinubu is the light Nigerians need
Just come to him all you that are apc/data boys/ anarchy/ underdevelopment/ hunger/ propaganda etc lovers and he will give you 2 cups of rice and 1 cup of cooking oil so you can eat and suffer for another 4 years.

OredoPikin2:
I ask again
What do u gain in lying to yourself?
U people need to separate politics from governance
If we call out the govt together and they fix the light, it will benefit you and your household
Stop defending failures

Do you love in my area,do you know the reasons why sone places would have better electricity supply than some......opposition isn't criticism all the time, if you can repudiate when the system failed, its only morally appropriate to acknowledge any improvement no matter how little.......i have not in anyway given the power minister or tinubu any pass mark.

If not because Oyo people/politics is very unpredictable, this empty promises minister too would've been baring his teeth on becoming governor by now.

Ofunaofu:
Where is the light? Nigerians knock Adelabu as two weeks’ promise on electricity fails

•Why N3.3trn won’t give you power supply — Experts

…Cite failed promises, disagreement over size of debt

Two weeks after Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, assured citizens of imminent relief from persistent outages, a cross-country check suggests that for many households and businesses, the reality has barely changed.


This came as recent announcement by President Bola Tinubu of the approval of N3.3 trillion for the settlement of outstanding debt in the nation’s power sector has been received with mixed feelings.

While some experts believe the statement in its entirety, others question its authenticity, describing it as a recurring narrative that has become a trend.

Adelabu had, on March 24, while addressing the media in Abuja, publicly apologised for the wave of blackouts that swept across the country, admitting that the situation had worsened living conditions at a time of intense heat.

He acknowledged the strain on homes, schools and industries, attributing the disruption largely to gas supply constraints and technical issues beyond the government’s immediate control.

“I want to apologise to Nigerians… for this temporary issue that is leading to hardship being experienced,” the Minister said, while promising that “two weeks from now, we should start seeing improvements in supply.”

That deadline expired on Friday.

But from Abuja to Lagos, and across several states, many Nigerians say the promised improvement has yet to materialise.

Worsening situation

In Utako, a district in Abuja, residents described a pattern of prolonged outages and brief, inconsistent supply.

Ekwa Mbuk, one of the affected residents, expressed frustration over what he called a worsening situation.

“So why are we at Utako District subjected to darkness for another night? The heat is sickening. This constant power outage is messing up the quality of life of your customers. Do you care? Please give us light,” he said, in a complaint directed at the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company.

He added that the power supply in the area had been erratic, with entire days passing without electricity, followed by only a short period of restoration.

“Since last night, no light… we’ve had only an hour of light. Are we getting what we’re paying for?” he asked.

Classifications

Similar sentiments echoed in Lagos, where Iyke Oscar questioned the rationale behind tariff classifications that promised extended supply.

“Why are we still paying as Band A, if we can’t have light up to 24 hours?” he asked, pointing to the growing disconnect between billing structures and actual service delivery.

Familiar pattern

Across the states, the accounts follow a familiar pattern.

In Delta, Abednego Emonena dismissed the situation bluntly: “Electricity in Nigeria is still a joke.”

In Ondo, Akin Muyiwa said residents in Akure had all but given up on the expectation of stable supply. “We don’t know what’s called electricity,” he remarked.


From Imo, Mary Blossom reported that parts of Owerri had experienced a near-total blackout for weeks. “For the past four weeks, no light,” she said.

In Edo State, Diana Efe described outages stretching into days. “This is the fifth day we haven’t seen electricity since rain fell,” she noted, while another resident, Aino, said communities were left with barely two hours of supply daily.

Elsewhere, the frustration is tinged with resignation. In Ekiti, Mr. Awo Adekunle summed it up: “No light, we just dey pay bill.”

Cynthia in Ogun State pointed to a pattern tied to weather conditions. “Once rain falls, no light for the next 12 hours, sometimes 24 hours,” she said, suggesting that infrastructure fragility continues to worsen outages.

For some, the situation has become almost surreal.


Abolanle Ajirowo wondered aloud whether official assurances referred to a different reality. “Maybe there’s another Nigeria we don’t know about,” she said.

Structural problem

Behind these reactions lies a deeper structural problem. Nigeria’s electricity generation has continued to hover around 4,000 megawatts, far below what is required for a population of over 200 million. Per capita electricity consumption remains between 144 and 165 kilowatt-hours, according to data from the International Energy Agency, placing the country well below the African average of 617 kWh.

The implications are visible in daily life. With grid supply unreliable, households and businesses are forced to rely on alternatives such as generators, inverters and solar systems. These come at significant cost, effectively creating a parallel, self-funded energy system.

Power bank rental

“Electricity remains unreliable, forcing people to depend on generators, inverters, or solar setups,” said Obinna Eze. “So you pay for electricity, even when it’s not consistent.”

In a sign of how deeply the crisis has reshaped everyday economics, new micro-businesses have emerged to fill the gap.

Power bank rentals, for instance, are now available in parts of Kaduna, Sokoto, Kano, Plateau, Niger, Nasarawa, Delta, Edo, Anambra, Imo and Lagos, offering temporary relief for phone charging and small devices at daily or weekly rates.

For now, the Federal Government maintains that improvements are on the way, tied to the repair of critical gas infrastructure and enforcement of supply obligations among producers.

Adelabu had expressed confidence that restored gas flow, particularly from facilities linked to major operators, would stabilise generation.
O
Yet, as the deadline he set passed without clear nationwide improvement, public patience appears to be thinning.

What remains is a familiar cycle of promise and delay, with millions of Nigerians still waiting, often in the dark, for a power sector turnaround that has long been anticipated but remains elusive.

Experts speak on N3.3trillion for power sector

Meanwhile, the announcement by Tinubu of the approval of N3.3 trillion for the settlement of outstanding debt in the power sector has been received with mixed feelings.

While some experts believe the statement in its entirety, others question its authenticity, describing it as a recurring narrative that has become a trend.

Sunday Vanguard findings reveal that prior to the latest declaration by the President, Adelabu, the Minister of Power, had announced the disbursement of the same amount in 2024, while the Debt Management Office (DMO) had already securitised about N4.5 trillion for the settlement of the same power sector debt.

Thus, some analysts view statements from the Presidency as mere sound bites aimed at scoring political points at the expense of Nigerian citizens, their businesses, and the economy at large.

While Nigerians suffer epileptic power supply, an estimated N40 trillion is lost annually due to poor electricity supply.

The Nigerian Independent System Operator, an agency of the Federal Government, had, a couple of weeks ago in a report, stated that persistent outages continue to impose high costs on businesses and households, many of which are forced to generate their own electricity.

According to the report, reliable electricity remains one of Nigeria’s most important economic priorities, stressing that power outages cost the country up to $29 billion annually.

Converted at the prevailing exchange rate of N1,385 to a dollar, this translates to roughly N40.1 trillion in yearly losses to the economy.

The operator added that the burden extends across all sectors, noting that businesses, manufacturers, and households spend billions each year generating their own electricity.

The shortfall in supply has continued to deepen electricity shortages, pushing homes and businesses to rely increasingly on alternative energy sources amid rising operating costs and harsh weather conditions.

The trajectories

Adelabu, on March 29, 2024, was quoted as saying on his Facebook page: “During my recent visit to the Egbin Power Plant, I reiterated that we have conducted a thorough diagnosis of the challenges currently facing our power sector in Nigeria. These challenges range from infrastructure limitations to supply chain constraints, and we are taking urgent action to address them and enhance power supply across the country.

“To this end, the Federal Government is fully committed to implementing proactive measures. Starting in April, we will prioritise the settlement of outstanding debts owed to power plants like Egbin Power. By doing so, our goal is to provide incentives for the continuous operation of these crucial facilities and to enhance their overall efficiency.”

Also, on October 7, 2025, the Minister was quoted as saying, “To stabilise the market, Mr. President has approved a N4 trillion bond to clear verified GenCo and gas supply debts.”

However, the Presidential Power Sector Financial Reforms Programme follows Tinubu’s approval of a N3.3 trillion payment plan to settle legacy debts accumulated between February 2015 and March 2025.

According to a release last Sunday, implementation has begun, with 15 power plants signing settlement agreements totalling N2.3 trillion.

The Federal Government said it had already raised N501 billion to fund these payments.

Of the amount, N223 billion was said to have been disbursed, with further payments underway.

Stakeholders, in the meantime, have questioned whether earlier approvals were effectively implemented or merely political statements, noting that three years down the line, no significant actions have been taken, while records of grid collapses continue to plague the country’s national grid.

Presidency report

A document tagged, ‘A Financial Reset for Nigeria’s Power Sector: The Presidential Financial Reforms Programme (2015-2026) – a chronological overview of efforts to resolve the power sector’s liquidity crisis and transition to a sustainable market-based framework,’ shows the origins of the N4.7 trillion debt, outlining a decade of tariff shortfalls, liquidity constraints, and structural inefficiencies which led to massive outstanding obligations across the power value chain.

It states: “The vicious cycle of liquidity shortfall—unpaid debts to GENCOs leading to arrears for gas suppliers—has constrained generation and rendered the sector non-bankable, culminating in a N4.7 trillion deficit.”

It notes that in 2024–2025, despite the N4.7 trillion claimed by GENCOs, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) established a N4 trillion cap, stating: “The FEC approved a settlement framework with a prudential ceiling of N4 trillion to ensure fiscal discipline.”

However, on its verification and negotiated settlement deal, the report said: “N3.3 trillion: The final negotiated figure, after rigorous verification, reduced the initial N4.7 trillion claim by 30 per cent through the removal of inflated, unsupported, or non-compliant charges.

“The market-based settlement mechanism includes cost-reflective tariffs, accelerated metering, and improved operational efficiency to prevent future debt accumulation.”

GENCOs reality, denial

While some GENCOs expressed confidence in the programme, others argued otherwise, noting that past experiences may have eroded trust in the system.

Speaking on the development and the impact of the N3.3 trillion on the power sector, Executive Director of the Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC), Dr. Joy Ogaji, said: “We only have it on paper.

“Yes, N3.3 trillion is what the government said it has approved, but we do not have details of what it covers or whether it includes the period from 2015 to 2024.

“The news we all have is political. Claims that it is up to date are questionable because reconciliation of invoices from 2015 to March 2025 has not been completed.

“The invoice for March 2025 was not included, and possibly February 2025 was also excluded due to the 45-day billing cycle.”

On solutions, another operator who spoke anonymously said: “Power sector issues need to be categorised.

“Yes, this is a pre-election period, so it is easy for the government to push liquidity solutions for compiled debts.

“But we must not deny that the debt claimed by GENCOs exists.

“All contractual terms, including interest on delayed payments, must be honoured.

“The GENCOs took loans when the exchange rate was about N155 to the dollar, but today it is over N1, 300. Who bears the difference?”

The source also pointed to a lack of transparency in billing and collection systems, calling for reforms and stronger oversight.

Others see things differently

Another source said: “I believe the government is sincere. The money will be paid, and fidelity to contracts is important. Government-imposed haircuts should not become the norm.”

Also reacting, energy economist and Executive Director, Emmanuel Egbigah Foundation, Prof. Wumi Iledare, said: “The power sector is not just underperforming—it is financially strained.

“Over N4 trillion in legacy debt continues to choke the entire value chain.

“What’s worse is that past solutions have been mostly stopgaps, addressing liquidity issues without fixing structural problems.


“At the core are non-cost-reflective tariffs, weak contract enforcement, and poor institutional coordination.

“The result is a cycle of debt recycling, not resolution.”

Electricity becoming a campaign issue – CPPE

For his part, Dr. Muda Yusuf, Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), said: “This is a pre-election period, and electricity is becoming a campaign issue. The government will likely make strong efforts to fulfill its promises.

“However, unless structural challenges are addressed, the sector may relapse. The key is ensuring the sector generates its own liquidity and attracts capable investors. Tariff reform is inevitable, though it must be gradual to avoid undue hardship.”

A step in the right direction – Independent Power

However, reacting, Managing Director of First Independent Power Limited, Mr. Seyi Sobogun, described the development as a critical step toward restoring stability.

“We welcome the progress made so far. Addressing legacy debts is crucial to improving system performance,” he said.

He noted that the N501 billion bond issuance, which was fully subscribed, reflects growing market confidence.

“We remain committed to working with stakeholders to strengthen the sector and improve electricity supply nationwide,” he added

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/04/where-is-the-light-nigerians-knock-adelabu-as-two-weeks-promise-on-electricity-fails/?

Yampotatocarrot:
Although I don't understand some of the terminologies you used, I also believe he was banking on the fact that by now rain would have started falling which will lead to increased power supply as usual... Unfortunately, the rains have delayed

Yes, I am cocksure he thought by now blue energy (hydro) will be at max because he knows the gas guys will not pump a single ounce more until he pays up.

This guy is a failure and will perform woefully if he unfortunately becomes governor

Mindlog:
Improvement, as in 24hrs electricity supply in your area?

Though some Nigerians believe they don't deserve 24hrs electricity supply.

APC has been in government for 11 years and still can't get the power sector right!

I get over 22 hours in my area,go to ifako ijaiye and ask,I am not saying its wide spread as someone areas definitely have connection and enumeration issues.

About being in power for 11 years,pdp squandered $16b with your atiku and el rufai in power with the amenities later privatised by same pdp under gej with your david mark as senate president.....the quagmire of that I'll thought out policy is what this apc has still not been able to untangle.....if things were done properly under pdp we wouldn't be in this mess right now.

Osiris12:
I wonder what you people gain in lying on social media


Looking over Lagos from an airplane at night is not different from looking over Amazon forest at night also

That doesn't negate the fact there has been improvement in my area and my life over the past 2 weeks.......if you don't have electricity, thats your problem.

Lithiumite:
Do you love in my area,do you know the reasons why sone places would have better electricity supply than some......opposition isn't criticism all the time, if you can repudiate when the system failed, its only morally appropriate to acknowledge any improvement no matter how little.......i have not in anyway given the power minister or tinubu any pass mark.

our grand fathers defended rubbish they sufferred for it and pass down the suffering to ur fathers, our fathers also defended rubbish and compounded the rubbish and passed the double suffering to us, we are defending the tripple double rubbish too and passing it down to GENZ and quadrippling the suffereing and they will pass it down to and because we wanna be right and we wanna win.. if we joined hand together to critisize a govt that failed and they lose election, we joined hand together to criticise the coming one till they lose too and eventually they will start listing to us by doing the right thing... we started well by criticising GEJ till he lost election and PMB came in, if we had continue or defended those criticising pmb failures and not turning it to tribal jabs, we would have grown to criticise tinubu well enough and in a generation or two, we will be balanced and criticism woould have become a norm and would have been better for the country.. we wold have all realized that loyalty is not to any politician but to the country.. we would have learnt that loyalty to an individual stop immediately it diverge from the interest of the country and its people...