Nigeria faces the risk of energy collapse and nationwide blackouts as gas suppliers cut supplies to power plants over an unpaid debt totalling N5.6 trillion.
Nigeria’s power infrastructure is under serious threat as gas companies have begun reducing supply to power plants due to an outstanding debt of N5.6 trillion owed by electricity distribution and generation firms.
The reduction in gas supply is pushing the national grid closer to total collapse, with experts warning that this could result in widespread blackouts across the country.
Industry sources say that the mounting debt has made operations unsustainable for gas suppliers, who argue that unless payments are made, further cuts are inevitable. “If nothing changes, we could be plunging millions into darkness,” one source reportedly said.
Meanwhile, power sector regulators and government agencies are being urged to intervene and settle the debts in order to avert looming energy crisis. Failure to act may result in far-reaching economic and social consequences.