In light of the ongoing power outages affecting much of Northern, Eastern, and South-South Nigeria, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, has voiced deep frustration over the crisis. He emphasized that the persistent blackouts, particularly severe in the Northern states, have severely impacted countless businesses that rely on a stable public power supply.
Obi stated, “This power crisis, combined with the current high cost of petroleum products and the challenging economic environment, is a devastating mix leading to widespread business failures and increased poverty across Nigeria.” He highlighted that the lack of reliable electricity has particularly harmed small businesses, which are vital to the Nigerian economy and provide a primary source of income for millions.
Pointing to successful power strategies in other countries, Obi noted that Nigeria’s power challenges are “not rocket science.” He cited Egypt’s aggressive investments in power infrastructure as a model, which has transformed the country’s energy landscape and now provides reliable electricity to millions of small businesses that contribute over 80 percent of Egypt’s GDP.
Obi urged the Nigerian government to implement both immediate and long-term solutions to address the power crisis and alleviate the burdens faced by citizens during these “tough times.” He concluded by calling for leadership committed to viable power reforms, asserting that “a New Nigeria is Possible” if the nation can achieve reliable electricity to support economic growth and stability.
