More than a decade after privatization, Nigeria's electricity distribution companies (DisCos) stand accused of monumental failure, prioritizing revenue collection over service delivery and infrastructure development. A damning revelation from an industry insider to Nigerian Pilot paints a picture of a sector in deep crisis, with the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) cited as a prime example.
The Core of the Failure: Neglect and Poor Investment
The source, who requested anonymity, stated bluntly that DisCos like AEDC are incapable of distributing power because their networks have seen no meaningful expansion since 2013. "They are just after money," the insider claimed. Instead of investing in modernizing equipment or expanding the grid, the companies have concentrated solely on collecting tariffs from consumers.
The only significant investment visible to the public—the distribution of meters—is reportedly driven not by corporate initiative but by the compulsion of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). Beyond this, maintenance is virtually non-existent. Consumers, both individuals and organizations, are often forced to replace poles, repair transformers, and buy essential equipment themselves. Applications for such assistance are merely a formality, with DisCos rarely taking action.
Root Causes: Abysmal Staff Welfare and Dilapidated Tools
The poor service delivery is traced to severe internal problems. Contract staff within these DisCos are allegedly paid as little as ₦70,000 monthly, a paltry sum that destroys morale and incentivizes poor performance. The situation is compounded by a complete lack of operational tools.
Field workers are reportedly forced to use personal motorcycles to transport heavy equipment like ladders because most company vehicles are in a deplorable state. This pathetic operational environment makes efficient service delivery nearly impossible.
A Broken Chain: TCN's Role in the National Blackout
The dysfunction is not limited to the DisCos. The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), responsible for evacuating power from generation plants, is also failing in its duty. The insider revealed that TCN's infrastructure is obsolete, built with substandard materials, leading directly to the frequent collapses of the national grid.
"There is zero distribution of transformers, zero distribution of poles, and zero distribution of aluminium conductors. Also, there is no network expansion and improvement," the source stated. Each grid collapse plunges millions into darkness, crippling businesses, hospitals, and schools, and damaging Nigeria's international reputation.
The human and economic cost is staggering. Nigerians endure constant blackouts, with DisCos recently failing to distribute over 1,000MW in just two weeks. Small businesses are burdened by the high cost of running generators, worsening economic inequality. Despite billions of Naira injected into the sector, citizens see no relief.
Official Response and a System in Denial
Lawmakers have taken note. The Nigerian Senate has openly declared the 2013 privatization of the power sector a failure, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio stating unequivocally, "DisCos have failed." Analysts point to systemic issues of poor planning, corruption, and a lack of accountability.
In reaction to the allegations, AEDC's Chief Operating Officer, Engr. Blessing Ogbe, offered a strong rebuttal. He dismissed the claims as untrue, asserting that AEDC is heavily investing in smart network expansion, metering, and staff development. Ogbe claimed the company has increased its energy off-take by over 10 percent, maintains its properties daily, and operates a competitive salary scale where no staff earns below the national minimum wage.
He emphasized AEDC's commitment to operational efficiency, investment in assets like vehicles, and a detailed transformation plan. The company, he said, remains dedicated to resolving customer complaints.
While AEDC seeks to project an image of reform, the broader consensus from critics and lawmakers is that Nigeria's power sector remains the nation's most enduring symbol of broken promises. Without urgent, massive investment in transmission infrastructure, transparent regulation to force DisCos to reinvest, and comprehensive staff welfare reforms, the sector will continue to hobble the country's economic growth and development.
