Three months after a high-profile meeting between Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State and top officials of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), Lafia residents say promises of stable electricity remain unfulfilled.
The May meeting, which brought together AEDC’s Managing Director, Engr. Chijioke Okwuokenye, and the Nasarawa State Electricity Board (NASEB) led by Engr. Yakubu Suleiman Umar, was hailed as a breakthrough. Central to the talks was the revival of the 2×15 MVA Injection Substation on Shendam Road—seen as critical to stabilizing power supply and meeting the growing needs of Lafia’s population.
But optimism has since turned to frustration. The substation remains dormant, with no visible work, equipment, or contractors on site.
“We were hopeful when the governor said things would change. But three months later, it feels like nothing has been done,” said Ibrahim Musa, a welder in Lafia.
Civil society leaders are also voicing concern. “After the press releases and photo ops, there’s no follow-through,” said Halima Audu of the Nasarawa Community Action Group. “The lack of accountability and silence on timelines is troubling.”
Residents continue to endure erratic power, frequent outages, and in some areas, complete blackouts. Small businesses depend heavily on generators, while households struggle with the rising cost of living.
“We’re in the dark most nights,” said Maryam Yakubu, a mother of four. “My children can’t even read after sunset.”
Repeated media inquiries to AEDC have been met with vague assurances citing “technical assessments” and “procurement processes,” without specific timelines.
Analysts warn that prolonged delays could dampen investor confidence and stifle Lafia’s economic growth. Residents and civil society groups are calling on Governor Sule and AEDC to break the silence with a public progress report—detailing clear timelines, challenges, and expected outcomes.
“This is not just about electricity, it’s about trust,” Audu stressed. “People want results, not promises.”
For Governor Sule, who has championed infrastructure and economic growth as pillars of his administration, the stalled project has become a test of credibility. The people of Lafia are watching—and waiting.
