- Says Non-performance of DISCOs could lead to outright licence revocation
Amidst the escalating electricity crisis gripping the nation, Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has taken decisive action by summoning key stakeholders from Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), and TCN’s Managing Director, Sule Ahmed Abdulazeez.
In a statement relayed by his media aide, Bolaji Tunji, Adelabu emphasized that any DISCO demonstrating willful non-performance might face severe repercussions or even the revocation of its license.
Tunji disclosed that Adelabu plans to convene meetings with the concerned DISCOs in the upcoming week. Additionally, he noted that the Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Sule Ahmed Abdulazeez, has also been summoned regarding the deteriorating power situation.
The minister highlighted findings indicating deliberate neglect of power supply uptake by certain distribution companies from TCN. Furthermore, instances of vandalism damaging power lines were reported in Abuja, Benin, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan regions.
“These two DISCOs have been called to account for the worsening power supply despite improved supply from TCN. We anticipate an enhancement in power supply nationwide, unlike the current challenges experienced in some regions,” stated Adelabu.
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Tunji remarked that despite gas shortages, the ministry has been pressuring Generating Companies (GENCOs) to enhance performance, resulting in a recent surge in generation to over 4000 MW.
Moving forward, the minister asserted a focus on all DISCOs to ensure compliance with expected performance standards. He warned that intentional non-performance could lead to severe penalties or license revocation.
Adelabu directed TCN to promptly initiate repair works on the damaged transmission towers and power lines to ameliorate supply in affected regions.
Recalling recent supervisory visits to power generating plants, Adelabu outlined plans for the expansion of Kainji hydro power plant and infrastructure assessments in Benue and Taraba States. Additionally, he visited thermal plants in Ogun and Ondo States and power plants in Edo State.
During these visits, Adelabu assured power plants of the government’s efforts to settle outstanding debts, thereby improving generation levels nationwide. He appealed to electricity consumers for patience during this transitional phase.
