By Peter Omopo
The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has assured Nigerians that electricity supply across the country is expected to improve significantly within the next 48 hours following ongoing repair works on critical gas infrastructure.
NISO attributed the current power shortfall to an explosion on the Escravos–Lagos Gas Pipeline (ELP), compounded by acts of vandalism that disrupted gas supply to several thermal power plants nationwide.
In a statement, the system operator said it is closely monitoring repair activities being carried out by the Nigerian Gas Processing and Transportation Company, a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
According to NISO, it has received assurances that the repair works are nearing completion, with the pipeline expected to become fully operational within 24 to 48 hours.
The development follows a meeting convened by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, with key stakeholders in the electricity sector, including NISO, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), electricity generation companies (GenCos) and distribution companies (DisCos).
At the meeting, the minister emphasised the urgency of restoring stable power supply, particularly in view of increased electricity demand during the festive season.
Both the Minister of Power and NISO appealed to the public for patience and understanding as efforts continue to resolve the situation and restore normal electricity supply across the country.
