Gas shortage continues to plague Nigeria, forcing homes and businesses to struggle with erratic electricity daily.
Consequently, flickering lights and sudden blackouts frustrate millions of Nigerians, disrupting daily life and business activities.
Gas Shortage Hits Hard
Nearly 70% of gas-fired power plants fail to operate fully because fuel and payment disputes persist.
Meanwhile, disagreements between suppliers, transporters, and power companies worsen electricity supply instability across the nation.
Therefore, the federal government has launched interventions to stabilise gas supply and boost power generation.
Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu explained that reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu are gradually producing results.
“Concrete measures target more reliable electricity for homes, businesses, and industries,” he emphasised during a press briefing.
Over the years, erratic electricity has left households frustrated and businesses struggling to operate efficiently and safely.
Debt Pressures Mount
Power generation companies (GenCos) face debts of about ₦6.8 trillion, which continue rising monthly since 2015.
As a result, some plants have shut down, limiting maintenance, fuel procurement, and daily operations significantly.
Furthermore, about 60% of payments owed to GenCos remain unsettled, worsening liquidity across the energy sector.
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Gas suppliers increasingly withhold deliveries without payment guarantees, intensifying power disruptions and leaving areas powerless nationwide.
To address these issues, the government proposes a multi-trillion naira bond programme to clear legacy debts.
Estimated at ₦4 trillion, the programme aims to restore liquidity, although experts caution it could increase public debt.
Meanwhile, GenCos dispute some reported debts, arguing that figures fail to fully reflect verified obligations accurately.
Hopes For Stability
Nigeria’s installed electricity capacity exceeds 13,000 megawatts, yet actual generation continues to fall far below national demand.
Accordingly, government reforms focus on improving coordination between gas and power sectors to unlock generation potential.
Together with financial interventions, these measures are expected to stabilise electricity supply gradually for homes and businesses.
Ultimately, Nigerians hope steadier electricity will replace flickering lights and bring an end to daily blackouts.
