Several states in northern Nigeria in late October 2024 experienced a major power outage lasting ten days. This disruption was caused by the tripping of a 330kV transmission line between Benue and Enugu states. The blackout had severe implications for residents and businesses, leading to substantial disruptions in daily life and economic activities.
The power outage affected multiple states served by the Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JEDC), including Plateau, Bauchi, Gombe, and Benue. The restoration of electricity on October 30, 2024, at approximately 7:20 PM, was met with jubilation among the residents, particularly in Jos, the capital of Plateau State.
President Bola Tinubu played a pivotal role in addressing the crisis. He convened meetings with key officials, including the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to expedite the restoration process. Tinubu's directive emphasized the need for a swift resolution and included deploying security personnel to protect engineers working on the damaged transmission line.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, stated, "President Tinubu is saddened by the reports of vandalism and willful destruction of power infrastructure and other public assets that caused the unfortunate blackout."
He further quoted the President as saying, "To ensure that restoration work continues unhindered, President Tinubu also directed the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to work with the Army and Air Force to deploy adequate security personnel, including aerial cover, to protect the engineers who are fixing the damaged transmission line."
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