By CONSTANCE ATHEKAME

The Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, assured on Tuesday that power supply would improve within two weeks and apologised to Nigerians for the current epileptic power situation in the country.

Adelabu gave the assurance while briefing newsmen in Abuja on the state of the power sector since he assumed office in October 2023.

“With the committee we have set up, the feedback from gas suppliers, and the timeline for repairing the gas pipelines, I can say that within two weeks we should start seeing improvements in power supply.

“Once the gas line repairs, particularly the one from Seplat, are completed and the committee ensures that gas companies meet their domestic supply obligations to power plants, timely payments will encourage gas suppliers and lead to improved power supply in the country,” he said.

Adelabu also appealed to Nigerians for patience regarding the temporary challenges currently being experienced in the power sector, adding that the ministry was doing everything possible to address the issue.

“We want to apologise to Nigerians for this temporary problem, which is causing hardship, especially during this dry season when the heat is intense and businesses, schools, and homes are being affected,” he said.

He attributed the challenge to a shortage of gas supply to power plants, noting that 75 per cent of power plants relied on gas.

According to him, 25 per cent of power generation comes from hydro, and without gas supply, generation companies are unable to operate, leaving turbines idle.

“It is not our wish to find ourselves in this situation, but there are factors beyond our control.

"We are not relenting. We are working around the clock to return to the trajectory we achieved in 2025, when we were commended for a job well done.

“If we were able to provide such service in 2025, then in 2026, we are determined to do even more and do better,” he said.

The minister added that in the coming weeks, power generation would improve, with a target of 6,000 megawatts of electricity expected before the end of 2026.

Adelabu also revealed that the sector had recorded over three billion dollars in private sector investments over the past two years.

According to him, the sector also has a comprehensive, integrated policy on electricity, accompanied by a strategic implementation framework to guide every stakeholder and actor in the sector.

“Whether it is the government, sub-national entities, or the private sector, both local and international, there is now a document they can refer to.

“This document clearly outlines what is expected of each player, their responsibilities, and their limitations,” he said. (NAN)

Update news