Power outage: Nigerians urged by Power Minister for understanding.

…Pledges urgent actions.

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has apologized to Nigerians for the ongoing electricity outages, promising urgent action as households and businesses continue to struggle amid the sweltering dry-season heat.

At a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Adelabu acknowledged that the persistent blackouts have significantly disrupted daily routines and comfort, making it especially difficult for Nigerians to cope with the soaring temperatures.

“I want to apologize to Nigerians, officially now, coming from me as the Minister of Power, for this temporary issue that is leading to hardship being experienced, especially during this dry season, where there is so much heat everywhere,” he said.

The minister explained that the power disruption is largely due to factors beyond the ministry’s immediate control, including challenges with gas supply and ageing infrastructure.

Despite these setbacks, he assured Nigerians that the government is working around the clock to resolve the crisis, with improvements expected within about two weeks.

Adelabu highlighted the role of a special committee established to track compliance by gas producers with domestic supply obligations to power plants.

He noted that ensuring steady gas supply is critical to restoring generation capacity, as Nigeria relies heavily on gas-powered plants.

“Critical repairs involving facilities operated by Seplat Energy are ongoing, and once completed, gas flow to power plants will be restored,” the minister said.

Looking ahead, Adelabu expressed optimism about the nation’s electricity future. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s goal to achieve 6,000 megawatts of power generation before the end of 2026, describing the current blackout as a temporary setback.

“Power generation will improve, transmission will improve, distribution will improve, and that 6,000 megawatts will be achieved before the end of this year, and Nigerians will be better for it,” he said.

Across the country, however, the response has been one of lamentation and frustration.

Many Nigerians say the blackout has never been this severe, with citizens highlighting the toll on their health, businesses, and daily lives.

The geometric rise in petrol and diesel prices has made running generators prohibitively expensive, while only a few households can rely on alternatives such as solar power.

Some Nigerians have expressed doubt about Adelabu’s ability to deliver, questioning the President’s decision in appointing him as Power Minister and wondering why he has not been replaced.

Many remain sceptical that repeated apologies and promises of improvement will translate into tangible results, noting that similar assurances have been given countless times before.

Nigeria’s electricity sector has long faced structural and operational challenges, including gas supply disruptions, ageing infrastructure, transmission constraints, and liquidity issues that have collectively hindered stable power delivery.

He assured that efforts are underway to address these challenges and improve service reliability. Nigerians are waiting.