Power Theft Shakes Power Sector
The Nigerian Independent System Operator has raised concerns over widespread electricity theft along the Ikorodu-Sagamu transmission corridor covering parts of Lagos and Ogun.
The agency said about 180 megawatts of electricity are being lost through illegal consumption linked mainly to large power users operating on the corridor.
According to the operator, the development is worsening pressure on the national grid and affecting stable electricity supply to genuine consumers.
Officials said the stolen energy represents a huge financial loss within the power sector at a time the industry is already battling revenue challenges and rising operational costs.
The agency explained that investigations showed some large customers were bypassing proper metering systems and engaging in unauthorised connections to consume electricity without accurate billing.
It warned that the practice threatens efforts to improve power generation, transmission and distribution across the country.
The operator said stronger enforcement measures and collaboration with security agencies had become necessary to tackle the growing problem.
It also called on electricity consumers and industry stakeholders to support efforts aimed at protecting critical power infrastructure and reducing losses on the national grid.
