President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu and relevant agencies to expedite the restoration of electricity to 17 northern states affected by a two-week blackout.
The president’s order came after an emergency meeting with Adelabu and National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu to address the crisis.
The prolonged blackout, caused by vandalism of the Shiroro-Kaduna transmission lines, has disrupted daily life and economic activities in the region.
President Tinubu expressed concern over the situation and emphasized the need for a sustainable, long-term solution. He urged engineers at the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to intensify work on the damaged facilities.
In addition, President Tinubu instructed Ribadu to collaborate with the Nigerian Army and Air Force to provide security for TCN personnel and contractors working on the damaged lines. He also called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and influential figures in the North to support security agencies in protecting public assets and infrastructure from further sabotage.
Meanwhile, the Northern States’ Governors’ Forum (NSGF) met in Kaduna with traditional rulers to address regional challenges. NSGF Chairman and Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya urged fellow governors to adopt measures to alleviate economic hardship through social welfare programs, support for small businesses, and policies attracting investment.
Power Minister Adelabu assured that the Federal Government is addressing the power supply challenge with short-term and long-term solutions.
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on the prolonged blackout, warning of its threat to regional security and economic well-being.
