The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has assured Nigerians of imminent improvements in electricity supply as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to tackle persistent gas constraints hindering power generation.
Adelabu conveyed this assurance in his Eid-el-Fitr message on Thursday. He highlighted that recent government interventions are starting to address the longstanding gas supply challenges that have restricted electricity generation nationwide.
The minister stated that the administration is putting in place specific actions to guarantee dependable electricity for various sectors.
“Concrete measures are being implemented to ensure more reliable and sustainable electricity for homes, businesses, and industries. The reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu are beginning to take root, and Nigerians will soon witness the full benefits,” he said.
The PUNCH recently reported that gas suppliers stopped supply to thermal power plants because of an estimated N3.3 trillion debt owed by power generation companies. This action worsened the country’s power shortages.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Power Generation Companies, Dr Joy Ogaji, revealed this issue. She warned that the accumulating debt throughout the power value chain is driving the sector toward a severe crisis.
Her remarks followed deteriorating electricity supply across Nigeria, with many citizens facing extended blackouts since the start of the year.
Data from the Nigerian Independent System Operator indicated that power generation fell below 4,000 megawatts in recent weeks. This decline stemmed mainly from gas shortages impacting thermal power plants, rendering reliable supply unfeasible in their service areas.
Adelabu expressed confidence that current initiatives would lead to visible enhancements in electricity supply soon. He emphasized that overcoming gas constraints is key to stabilizing the power sector.
Electricity consumers in all supply bands have continued to complain about the poor service. This is especially true given rising fuel costs and intense heat.
Recently, the Nigerian Independent System Operator released operational data showing the extent of the deficit. Thermal power plants need about 1,629.75 million standard cubic feet of gas daily for optimal performance. As of February 23, 2026, actual supply was only around 692.00 mmscf per day, less than 43 per cent of the required amount.
Several power generation companies have repeatedly asked electricity consumers for patience. They explained that the escalating gas constraints are outside their control.
The ongoing situation has caused many households and businesses to endure lengthy outages. This has sparked concerns that electricity supply could worsen if the financial disputes in the power sector remain unresolved.
Adelabu explained that the government’s wider reform plan aims to improve efficiency throughout the electricity value chain. He added that lasting progress relies on ongoing public support and adherence to policy guidelines.
In his Thursday message, Adelabu urged Nigerians to remain patient and committed. He noted that the current difficulties form part of a shift toward a more dependable and sustainable power system.
“The challenges we face today are, without doubt, the building blocks of a more prosperous tomorrow,” he said.
The minister encouraged citizens to preserve the discipline and sacrifice developed during Ramadan. He called for shared responsibility in advancing national development.
He mentioned that President Tinubu’s recent engagements, including meetings in the United Kingdom, are anticipated to draw investments into vital sectors like power. This would bolster infrastructure and service provision.
Adelabu stressed that sustained reforms and collaboration would enable the government to achieve better electricity supply for Nigerians, aligning with its development goals.
