The presidential candidate of Labour Party, LP, Mr Peter Obi, has expressed confidence that resolving Nigeria’s ongoing power and energy crisis is achievable, stating that it does not require complex solutions.
Obi made this statement while expressing concern over the prolonged power outages affecting large parts of Nigeria, particularly in Northern, Eastern, and South-South states.
Obi emphasised the devastating economic impact of the ongoing power crisis on local businesses, which he described as a “lethal recipe for widespread business failure and increasing poverty.”
“This power crisis, when combined with the present high cost of petroleum products and a harsh operating environment, remains a lethal recipe for widespread business failure and increasing poverty in the country,” Obi wrote on his X page.
Drawing comparisons with other nations, Obi highlighted Egypt as an example of how aggressive investment in the power sector can yield sustainable results.
He noted that Egypt’s concerted efforts in establishing power stations and sustainable power infrastructure have provided consistent electricity to millions of small businesses, contributing significantly to the country’s economy.
According to Obi, Egypt’s success in power and energy management has been pivotal to its thriving business sector, accounting for over 90% of active enterprises and contributing more than 80% to the nation’s GDP.
“Many of our comparable peer nations have demonstrated how possible it is to provide sustainable power for their citizens.
“Our African neighbor, Egypt, for example, invested aggressively in their power sector, which resulted in the establishment of a sustainable power infrastructure by way of many power stations.”
Obi stressed that resolving Nigeria’s power issues is within reach and not an impossible task. “Solving Nigeria’s power and energy crisis is not rocket science,” he added.
In his post Obi expressed his empathy for Nigerians enduring the impact of the crisis, acknowledging the difficulties faced by those who depend on a stable power supply for their livelihoods.
He further called on government officials to urgently address the nation’s energy problems to prevent further damage to the economy and the welfare of citizens.