‘South-East losing billions of Naira to electricity crisis’ – SEECA charges govs on generation
South East Electricity Consumers Association Urges Governors to Focus on Power Generation
ENUGU, Nigeria — The South East Electricity Consumers Association (SEECA) has called on regional governors to prioritize electricity generation in light of the ongoing power crisis affecting the area. The association highlighted significant financial losses incurred by residents due to unreliable power supply, estimating the total losses at over 28 billion Naira in three months.
During a recent press conference in Enugu, SEECA Coordinator Dr. Sebastine Chukwuebuka Okafor addressed the persistent electricity shortages that have plagued the South East in recent months. He attributed these issues primarily to challenges in national power generation.
Okafor emphasized the detrimental impact of erratic electricity supply on local businesses, particularly during the festive season when commercial activity typically peaks. He noted that many small businesses are struggling to remain operational as they grapple with high costs for alternative power sources, such as generators and diesel.
While acknowledging the challenges faced by electricity distribution companies (DisCos), Okafor pointed out that they cannot be solely blamed for the shortages. He explained that the complexity of the electricity value chain means that DisCos are unable to distribute power they do not receive and stressed that the South East receives only about seven percent of the country’s total electricity generation.
“Electricity is the backbone of every modern economy,” Okafor stated. “When power is unstable, industries suffer, jobs are lost, and people remain in poverty.”
He urged the regional governors to shift their focus from electricity distribution to generation, describing the current approach as ineffective for the region’s progress. He argued that this emphasis on distribution without adequate generation exacerbates scarcity and discontent among consumers.
Okafor encouraged investment in independent power plants, citing the South East’s wealth of human capital, gas resources, and the presence of private investors willing to engage in power generation projects. He asserted that such investments could reduce reliance on the national grid, stimulate industrial growth, and foster economic self-reliance in the region.
“Increased commitment to power generation will lead to stable electricity, which is essential for job creation and poverty alleviation,” Okafor concluded.
