The Tinubu administration has unveiled plans to sell the five DisCos, the electricity distribution companies that have been a source of frustration for many Nigerians due to persistent power outages.
Adebayo Adelabu, Nigeria’s Minister of Power, recently confirmed the government’s plans to sell off the DisCos. Speaking on Monday, April 22, Adelabu stated that the banks and AMCON, who took over the management of these companies after the previous owners defaulted on their loans, lack the technical expertise required to effectively manage the DisCos and improve electricity supply.
Adebayo Adelabu also noted that the sale of the DisCos to technically competent and reputable power operators is expected to be finalized within three months.
The five DisCos that have been identified for sale include Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) under UBA management, Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company and Kano Electricity Distribution Company under Fidelity Bank management, and Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IEDC) under AMCON management.
While investors currently own 60% of shares in the DisCos, the Federal Government still holds 40%. Despite these investments, the DisCos have faced multiple issues such as low electricity allocation from the national grid and shortages in gas supply to the GenCos, leading to frequent power outages.