Nigeria has been plunged into darkness once again as the national power grid collapsed for the ninth time this year, leaving the nation in a blackout.
According to data from the Nigerian System Operator, the grid’s power output dropped to zero megawatts at 2:09 pm on Tuesday.
This latest incident was confirmed by Ikeja Electric Distribution Company (IKEDC) on their X page, with a statement noting the system failure occurred around 1:52 pm.
“Please be informed that we experienced a system outage today 05 November, 2024 at 13:52Hrs affecting supply within our network.
“Restoration of supply is ongoing in collaboration with our critical stakeholders. Kindly bear with us,” IKEDC said.
Similarly, the Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JEDC) informed consumers that the grid collapse has impacted all feeders within its service regions.
JEDC’s head of corporate communications, Friday Adakole, clarified, “The current outrage being experienced within our franchise States is a result of loss of power supply from the national grid.
“The loss of power supply from the national grid occurred this afternoon at about 1352Hours of today, Tuesday, 5th November 2024, hence the loss of power supply on all our feeders.
“We hope to restore normal power supply to our esteemed customers as soon as the grid supply is restored back to normalcy.
“Thank you for your patience and understanding as we strive to serve you better.”
Adakole expressed hope for a swift return of normal power, reassuring customers that the company was awaiting grid stability for full restoration.
The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) also acknowledged the disruption and pledged to work with stakeholders to restore power as soon as possible.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) had not yet provided an official statement at the time of this report.
The national grid has faced repeated failures this year, with previous collapses recorded on February 4, March 28, April 15, July 6, August 5, and three consecutive days in October (14th, 15th, and 19th).
Earlier, on October 17, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, addressed the nation’s recurring grid issues, attributing them to outdated infrastructure.
He explained that continued collapses are likely until the grid receives a comprehensive overhaul, emphasizing that significant investment in power infrastructure is essential to prevent future failures.
