Some Nigerians on Wednesday called on the Federal Government to take swift action to address the constant collapse of the National Grid.
The grid, which generates about 4,500 MW of electricity for over 200 million people, recently collapsed, impacting businesses and threatening the nation’s economic stability.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Mr Augustine Nnadozie stated that “The situation is not encouraging.
“This is the third time the National Grid has collapsed this week, and I stand to be corrected.
“We want those managing the grid to find lasting solutions to the problem. I urge the National Assembly and Federal Government to take action to address this issue”.
Joy Okoye, a trader selling frozen foods at Garki Modern Market in Abuja, recounted her losses due to the ongoing power failures.
She said, “The situation in the country is not funny at all. We can’t buy fuel to power the generator.
“There’s no electricity, and all my seafood has defrosted, which is a significant setback.
“The government needs to intervene and find a permanent solution to this issue”.
Haruna Adamu, a Point of Sale operator, lamented the impact of the situation on his business.
He noted that charging his devices used to cost N50, but it has now increased to N200.
“I am sad. As you can see, my two PoS devices are down because there is no power to operate them. If you go to vendors, they will charge you N200 instead of N50.
“What can I do? The government needs to help us. I am a graduate, and I operate a PoS business because there are no job opportunities. Now, I feel discouraged,” he said.
NAN reports that, aside from Niger and Kwara, 17 states in the North have been without electricity supply for the past two weeks.
This has severely disrupted business activities and made life increasingly difficult for residents in the affected states.
NAN quotes Mr Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, as saying that electricity would be restored to the 17 northern states that have suffered blackouts due to the vandalisation of the Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line.
He explained that the disruption in electricity supply to the northern region was caused by the vandalism of this major transmission line.
However, he assured that the line would be repaired within three to five days.
“Mr President has instructed the National Security Adviser, the Chief of Defense Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, and the Chief of Air Staff to provide the necessary security for the workers who will repair the damaged line.
“With adequate security in place, the Transmission Company of Nigeria staff and contractors will feel confident to go to the field and complete the repairs.
“I appeal to our northern brothers and sisters, fathers and mothers, to bear with us. Very soon, electricity will be restored, and we must all collectively protect our national grid to avoid further vandalism,” said the minister. (NAN)
