Breaking News: National Grid Collapse Hits Nigeria for the 6th Time This Year
Abuja, Nigeria – October 14, 2024 – Nigeria’s national power grid has collapsed for the sixth time this year, plunging the country into darkness. The latest grid failure occurred at 7:00 pm, leaving millions without electricity.
Zero Megawatts Generation
According to the Nigerian System Operator’s portal, power generation dropped to zero megawatts, indicating a complete collapse of the national grid. All 22 generation companies (GenCos) were down at the time of the report.
Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) Yet to Confirm
Despite the widespread blackout, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has not officially confirmed the grid collapse. Stakeholders and the public remain in the dark about the cause and resolution of the crisis.
Previous Grid Collapses
This is not the first time the national grid has collapsed this year. Previous collapses occurred on:
• February 4, 2024: National power grid collapsed at 11:51 AM
• April 15, 2024: Grid failure caused widespread blackout
• August 5, 2024: Fifth grid collapse of the year
• October 14, 2024: Sixth national grid collapse, causing nationwide blackout
Concerns Over Power Sector Reliability
The frequent grid failures have raised concerns about the reliability and efficiency of Nigeria’s power infrastructure. Experts blame aging equipment, inadequate maintenance, and lack of investment for the recurring collapses.
NERC’s Efforts to Improve Power Sector
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has announced efforts to improve the power sector, including:
• Significant increase in electricity tariffs
• Licensing private companies to generate electricity
• Initiatives to promote renewable energy
However, the effectiveness of these measures remains uncertain, and the public continues to bear the brunt of the power sector’s inefficiencies.
Reactions from Stakeholders
“This recurring grid collapse is unacceptable,” said Chinedu Onyekwene, a Lagos-based businessman. “We need a reliable power supply to drive economic growth.”
“The government must take urgent action to address the power sector’s challenges,” added Dr. Nnaji, an energy expert.
Next Steps
The TCN and NERC are expected to provide an update on the grid collapse and restoration timeline. Meanwhile, Nigerians continue to wait for a reliable power supply.
