By Tony Eluemunor
A public debate has emerged following comments by Ambassador-designate Reno Omokri comparing recent power outages in parts of the United States to Nigeria’s longstanding electricity challenges.
Omokri, in a social media post, argued that power grid failures occur in countries around the world, including the United States, and should not be portrayed as evidence of national failure unique to Nigeria. His remarks were seen as a response to criticism from former presidential candidate Peter Obi, who has frequently highlighted Nigeria’s electricity deficits as a major obstacle to economic growth.
Nigeria’s electricity crisis, however, predates the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Analysts note that inadequate generation and distribution have persisted since the 1980s, contributing to industrial decline and the relocation or closure of several major companies over the decades.
Between 2020 and 2025, multiple multinational and local firms either shut down manufacturing operations, scaled back production, or transitioned to import-based models. Industry observers cite unreliable electricity supply, high energy costs, and foreign exchange volatility as key factors.
Among notable developments:
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Procter & Gamble (P&G) ceased manufacturing operations in Nigeria in December 2023, moving to an import-only model.
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GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) announced its exit in 2023 after decades of operation, having earlier halted local manufacturing.
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Unilever Nigeria discontinued production of certain product lines in 2023.
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Diageo sold its majority stake in Guinness Nigeria in 2024.
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Kimberly-Clark Nigeria closed its production facility in 2024.
Other manufacturing firms reportedly shut down between 2020 and 2022, while several energy and industrial companies restructured or divested Nigerian operations.
Manufacturers’ associations have repeatedly pointed to heavy reliance on diesel-powered generators due to unreliable grid supply. Reports indicate that more than 60 percent of manufacturing firms have shifted to self-generation, significantly increasing production costs. Economists warn that these costs are often passed on to consumers, contributing to inflationary pressures and reduced purchasing power.
Nigeria’s national grid has experienced multiple collapses in recent years. While the Tinubu administration announced a record peak generation of 5,801.84 megawatts and a maximum daily energy output of 128,370.75 megawatt-hours, energy experts note that supply remains insufficient relative to the country’s estimated population of over 230 million.
Comparisons have also been made with Tanzania, which produces between 3,000 and 4,000 megawatts for a population of about 70 million. Peter Obi previously commended Tanzania’s reported improvements in electricity stability, urging Nigerian authorities to adopt similar reforms. Omokri, however, accused Obi of “de-marketing” Nigeria by highlighting foreign examples.
In his post, Omokri stated:
“The United States has suffered several major power grid failures, resulting in widespread outages… These things happen in every country on Earth. It is not limited to Nigeria.”
Energy analysts acknowledge that power outages can occur in advanced economies due to extreme weather, technical faults, or infrastructure stress. However, they emphasize that the frequency, duration, and systemic reliability of electricity supply differ significantly between countries.
The broader policy discussion centers on whether episodic outages in highly industrialized nations are comparable to Nigeria’s chronic supply deficits, which have constrained manufacturing, discouraged investment, and affected household welfare for decades.
As Nigeria continues efforts to reform its power sector—through grid upgrades, renewable investments, and increased private participation—the debate highlights the central role electricity plays in economic development, job creation, and national competitiveness.
The controversy also underscores the heightened scrutiny surrounding public statements by political figures and diplomatic appointees at a time when Nigeria faces pressing economic and infrastructure challenges.
