Nigeria Power Minister reports improved supply amid theft and vandalism

Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, has reported significant improvements in electricity distribution, with some previously neglected regions now receiving up to 18 hours of daily power. The increased consistency has led to notable feedback from consumers, including reports of freezers working continuously. Tegbe noted that the government is systematically replacing aging infrastructure, some of which is over 40 years old, to modernize the sector.

However, the minister highlighted critical challenges threatening the stability of the power grid. He has called for urgent intervention from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to combat widespread vandalism and energy theft, which cost the sector billions of naira annually. Tegbe noted that the Ministry of Power lacks the statutory authority to prosecute offenders, such as those stealing manhole covers or transmission tower components, and requires the EFCC to lead investigations and prosecutions.

Additionally, the minister addressed the issue of energy theft, specifically citing companies that consume power without paying their bills. To protect critical infrastructure, a joint committee involving the Police, EFCC, and NSCDC has been formed to treat vandalism as a serious criminal offense.