In response to the ongoing issue of persistent power outages across Nigeria, government has issued warning to electricity distribution companies (DisCos), threatening to impose a 50% sanction on them for their failure to provide adequate service to consumers.
Musiliu Useni, the vice chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), made the announcement in a statement released on the commission’s official platform. He emphasized the need for DisCos to enhance their performance or face severe consequences.
“NERC will assess performance on a case-by-case basis. Sanctions and actions will vary accordingly. DisCos must strive to improve efficiency. Failure to meet expected standards will result in receiving only 50% of administrative operating expenses,” stated Useni.
The recent weeks have witnessed a noticeable reduction in electricity supply in various parts of the country. Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, responsible for serving the southeast region, cited factors beyond its control for the decline in power provision.
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, attributed the drop in electricity supply nationwide to gas constraints and outstanding debts. In an effort to address the issue, Adelabu initiated a committee tasked with resolving the decline in power supply across the nation.
Despite these efforts, reports indicate that irregular power supply persists in several regions of Nigeria, exacerbating the daily challenges faced by businesses and r esidents.
