The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a decisive campaign against widespread electricity theft in the Ikorodu–Sagamu industrial corridor, where unaccounted power losses have reached 100 megawatts. This alarming situation is resulting in an estimated annual revenue loss of N120 billion for the electricity market.

During a recent stakeholders meeting held in Lagos, Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, announced the government's intervention aimed at addressing these significant discrepancies in electricity billing. The meeting brought together industrial operators, key market participants, and energy regulators to discuss the critical issues affecting the energy sector.

Tegbe emphasized the need for a transparent and scientifically based investigation into the differences between the amount of electricity transmitted and the energy that is officially billed by distribution companies. He stated that the government is committed to ensuring that manufacturers in the region receive a reliable power supply, while also insisting on strict accountability and accurate billing practices.

The Ikorodu–Sagamu corridor has become a vital industrial manufacturing hub in Nigeria, catering to major heavy consumers. However, the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has utilized advanced technological monitoring tools to reveal significant loading anomalies and severe commercial losses within the network. This has raised concerns about the integrity of the power distribution system in the area.

In his address, Tegbe made it clear that the administration under President Bola Tinubu would no longer tolerate practices such as meter tampering, deliberate data manipulation, or any form of interference with energy infrastructure. He reiterated that accountability is essential, stating that every consumer must be responsible for the actual power consumed.

The government's crackdown on electricity theft is part of a broader strategy to enhance the efficiency of the power sector and ensure that the growing industrial base in Nigeria can thrive without the burden of energy losses. As the nation seeks to bolster its manufacturing capabilities, maintaining a stable and transparent energy supply will be crucial for fostering industrial growth and economic development.