Editorial: A Passionate Appeal To Governor Abdullahi Sule On Lafia’s Electricity Crisis

In the heart of Nasarawa State, the capital city Lafia stands as a symbol of the state’s aspirations for growth and development. Yet, a basic necessity that fuels this progress—electricity—remains inconsistent, unreliable, and in many areas, painfully absent. It is in this light that we make a heartfelt and urgent appeal to His Excellency, Governor Abdullahi Sule: let there be light in Lafia.

Electricity is not a luxury; it is a lifeline. Small businesses suffer daily losses due to power outages. Students are forced to study by candlelight. Health facilities, already stretched thin, struggle to refrigerate vaccines or power essential equipment. The impact is far-reaching, touching every home, every school, every market stall.

Your Excellency in Nasarawa state you demonstrated commitment to industrialization and infrastructure, your background in engineering and the private sector inspires confidence. However, it is time to translate that vision into a comprehensive, actionable plan to resolve Lafia’s power issues. We sincerely acknowledge and appreciate your efforts in attempting to resuscitate the Shendam Road Substation, located opposite the Low Cost Housing Estate. Unfortunately, the process was hindered by the actions of certain AEDC staff, in collusion with some state government officials, who inflated the cost estimate you requested for the substation’s rehabilitation. This ultimately led to the suspension of the project.
This substation is the largest in Lafia, but it broke down about eight years ago. Despite this, the AEDC has made no serious effort to repair it. Instead, they resorted to rationing electricity between the two remaining substations—one on Jos Road and the other at Marraraba Junction along Makurdi Road—placing unbearable pressure on both.

We are not asking for miracles—we are calling for leadership, and for urgency. Let Lafia become a model for energy reform, not a cautionary tale of neglect.

We respectfully urge His Excellency to revisit the issue of the Shendam Road substation in the interest and well-being of the people. While we recognize that AEDC is a private entity, we appeal to the government to intervene for the overall progress and development of Nasarawa State. The government can consider taking up the repairs of the substation directly, without involving AEDC, to ensure swift and effective resolution.

Your Excellency, people are waiting—not just for electricity, but for the spark of change you can bring. Let the lights come on, and let progress begin.

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