Residents and businesses across Lagos are facing reduced electricity supply following a nationwide drop in power generation, Ikeja Electric has confirmed.
Mr. Kingsley Okotie, the company’s Head of Corporate Communications, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday that the disruption is due to insufficient gas supply to thermal power plants, which are the main source of electricity in the country.
“The ongoing reduction in electricity supply is largely due to a nationwide drop in power generation, caused by limited gas supply to thermal power plants.
This has significantly reduced the energy available on the national grid and, consequently, the allocation to Ikeja Electric and other distribution companies,” he said.
Okotie added that the shortfall has caused intermittent outages and load shedding across Ikeja Electric’s network.
He assured customers that the company is committed to distributing the available power as efficiently and fairly as possible.
“The management regrets the inconvenience caused and appreciates the patience and understanding of our customers during this period.
We remain committed to distributing the available power as efficiently and equitably as possible,” he said.
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Customers were urged to remain patient while national efforts continue to improve gas supply and stabilise power generation.
The reduced supply has intensified electricity challenges in Lagos, with residents and businesses reporting increased reliance on generators and higher operating costs.
Mrs. Kemi Adebayo, a frozen food trader, said, “I run my generator more than I use public power. If there is no light, my goods spoil. If I use fuel, I lose profit. Either way, I am losing.”
Mr. Sani Ibrahim, a welder, described the situation as unsustainable. “We spend more on diesel than on raw materials. Sometimes, customers leave because we cannot deliver on time,” he said.
Mrs. Roseline George, a civil servant, added that erratic electricity supply has worsened the effects of rising temperatures.
“It has been very hot, and there is no constant electricity supply. We rely on rechargeable fans and drink plenty of water,” she said.
Experts warn that persistent challenges, including gas supply shortages, recurring grid disturbances, and sectoral debts, continue to limit electricity generation in Nigeria and could further hinder productivity and economic growth if not urgently addressed.
(NAN)