ANED's Sunday Oduntan Apologizes for Nigeria's Blackouts

Electricity distribution companies in Nigeria have issued an apology to citizens for weeks of prolonged blackouts, with Sunday Oduntan, managing director and CEO of the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED), acknowledging the hardships endured by Nigerians. During an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Oduntan criticized the return to blame-shifting among sector operators, reminiscent of the period from 2016 to 2019.

He highlighted conflicting statements from agencies regarding the causes of the power shortages, specifically addressing the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited's (NNPC) claims about gas availability. Oduntan urged Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe to facilitate a meeting among all parties to clarify the situation.

The blackouts have been exacerbated by dry-season heat and increased costs for running generators, leading to public outcry. Tegbe reported that power had been restored in parts of Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Kwara, and the Federal Capital Territory after disruptions caused by vandalism.