Business
How Gas shortage, Niger Delta militancy is affecting Nigeria’s electricity supply
Nigeria’s electricity sector is still under the pressures of weak gas supply which has also affected other sectors of the economy, especially some large scale industrial sectors such as cement manufacturing.
Power generation has considerably been limited by gas constraints, a development that has also driven down electricity supply to households and businesses within the country. In a recent report covering third week in October 2016, the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, stated that gas constraint to power generation, averaged 2, 661mw. The NERC data indicated that October 19th, had the highest gas constraint which averaged 2, 932mw, while October 12 had the least constraint at 2,479mw. The situation has been long pervading the sector. In particular, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, disclosed that between February to July 2016, 88.39 billion Standard Cubic Feet (SCF) of gas was supplied to gas-fired power plants across the country, indicating a huge 35.95 per cent drop from 138 billion SCF supplied to the power plants between August 2015 and January 2016. These negative developments are against Nigeria’s position as one of the countries with the largest gas reserves in the world. The challenges and root causes Industry experts have identified absence of critical gas infrastructure as the key factor responsible for the poor gas supply, as the country had over the years, failed to expand on its existing facilities and infrastructure. An update of the challenges in this regard was given last week by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachukwu, while launching the Short and Medium Term Priorities to Grow Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Industry (2015 – 2019), tagged the ‘7BigWins’, a new initiative by the Ministry of Petroleum Resources. Kachikwu, referring to the slow pace of action as it concerns Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas, lamented: “The present nostalgic feelings are that 10 years ago we should have been in Train 12. The fact that we wasted this much time when the prices were really very lucrative and supportive is a shame. But we are going to continue to keep working on the process; we are committed to doing that. We are driving that process; we are going to keep doing that.” Another major factor, which is currently giving the authorities cause for concern is the resurgence of violence in the Niger Delta region. The attacks on gas pipelines in the Niger Delta had made it impossible to evacuate gas from the production fields to the various power plants across the country, especially in the first half of this year. The shortage in gas supply, according to stakeholders in the sector, had negatively impacted the growth of the country’s power sector and is gradually plunging the sector further into a state of total collapse. Industry experts have also highlighted the issue of escalating costs in the operations of the power companies which came with the rising inflation as well as the militant attacks and poor infrastructure. There is also the issue of poor funding of the sector amidst liquidity crunch and huge debt owed the operators by mostly government establishments. Commenting on the volatility in the Niger Delta and its impact on electricity generation and supply, Mr. Eze Onyekpere, Executive Director, Centre for Social Justice, CSJ, said the crisis in the region has negatively impacted gas supply and growth of the power sector. ”Niger Delta crisis has adversely and negatively impacted on the growth of the Nigerian power sector. The cost of repairing blown up pipelines and facilities also adds up to costs in the sector. Thus, the Niger Delta crisis contributes to the stunted growth of the power sector,” he stated. Also speaking to Sweetcrude on the problem, Mr. Adeola Adenikinju, a Professor of Economics and Director, Centre for Petroleum, Energy Economics and Law, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, lamented that the Niger Delta crisis had dealt a very significant blow on the Nigeria energy sector in particular and the economy in general. According to him, the crisis had brought about volatility in gas supply, which has reduced the capacity utilization of the electricity generating companies (GENCOs) and, therefore, the amount of power that could have been generated from the installed electricity capacity present in the country.
He said, “The Niger Delta crisis has dealt a very significant blow on the Nigeria energy sector in particular and the economy in general. Apart from increasing the risk premium for petroleum companies working in the region, because of kidnapping incidence and the constant threat from the militants, the actual attacks on the petroleum infrastructure in the region have led to significant reduction in petroleum production and exports with major impact on government revenue and capacity to operate the budget. “More importantly is that the flow of gas to the power stations had been badly hit. Over 80 per cent of our power plants are based on thermal. Hence, regular gas supply is important for their continuous operations. “However, the volatility in gas supply has reduced the capacity utilization of the GENCOs and therefore the amount of power that could have been generated from the installed electricity capacity present in the country. “It also impact on the unit cost of electricity produced and consumed. The uncertainty of electricity supply to businesses and homes will raise marginal costs of operations for those firms, leading to higher production costs and products prices.” Kola Adesina, Chairman, Egbin Power Plc, believes that one of the constraints of the generation companies is the debt owed them by the government. “What seems to be the challenge so far is the log of debt owed us by the Federal Government. This huge debt is hindering operations and limiting possible development to increase our network,” he stated.
The company raised alarm over the indebtedness of government to the tune of N86 billion. Confronting the challenges Onyekpere called for a political resolution of the Niger Delta crisis, through effective dialogue and beneficial compromise. He said, “The human being is the coordinator that puts all forces and factors of production into a momentum that culminates in goods and services. When the human element malfunctions, the other components are bound to fail or not to start the process at all. “What is required for the Niger Delta is a political resolution of the crisis where the stakeholders including the federal government, state and communities will engage in a give and take relationship. All cards should be laid on the table and a long lasting resolution will be designed. This will help the generating companies to increase their generation of power; restore investors’ confidence and bring increased development to the Delta.”
He lamented the delay in commencement of negotiations with the aggrieved parties after over two months since a ceasefire was announced. “Many Nigerians are surprised that the Federal Government has failed to take steps to commence the negotiations for the resolution of the crisis since the Avengers and other groups announced a ceasefire over two months ago. “There has been a lull and from time to time, the militants still carry out attacks of oil and gas facilities. Nigerians have not been briefed on the state of the negotiations if any is ongoing. It did not take the Umaru Yar’adaua government this long to establish a truce and calm down the Delta,” he stated. On ways to address the many factors hindering the growth of the power sector, Onyekpere said, “The Federal Government knows exactly what to do, which starts with the negotiations with the militants and resolving the security scare. This will pave the way for the restoration of the gas supplies, especially with some repairs of damaged facilities. “There is no reason for there to be a liquidity crisis in the sector if all stakeholders play by the rules. If the Distribution Companies (Discos) do not have the resources to provide appropriate metering infrastructure or to collect their debts, then they should open up to new investors or to the Nigerian public. The dog in the manger attitude of those who bought public companies is no longer acceptable. “The story about indebtedness is funny. Every Discos should be able to disconnect debtors; sue in court for recovery of money owed and for services rendered and ensure that they pay before service meters are installed in every home, office or company. “I think most of the ownership and management of the Discos are jokers; they do not understand what it takes to be in business. They want to collect tariffs without supplying electricity and or investing money to improve the system”, he concluded. Solutions, way forward Adenikinju advised that in the short, medium and long term, the Federal Government should consider negotiating with the militants; boost gas storage infrastructure to reduce the impact of pipeline vandalism and diversify the country’s energy generation supply source respectively. He said, “I believe that we need to take several steps. In the short term, we should negotiate with the militants and the aggrieved stakeholders in the Niger Delta with the hope of achieving confidence building and reducing the incidence of vandalism. “We can also explore the possibility of using technology to monitor the prospects of attacks before they actually occur. “The pipeline communities should also be treated as stakeholders to ensure they protect the pipelines passing through their areas. “In the medium term, we need to explore gas storage technology and infrastructure to ensure that we delay the impact of pipeline vandalism on the generation company. “We should also encourage dual fired generation plants, virtual pipelines technology and in the long term diversify our energy generation supply source in order to boost our energy security. “The dependence on gas up to 80 per cent for electricity generation is not healthy. Other sources of electricity generation including renewable should be incentivized and encouraged.” On ways to address the many factors hindering the growth of the power sector, Adenikinju said, “There must be a study of the system by experts so that government reform or rescue package is based on evidence. There should also be implementation of numerous reports by the Energy Commission of Nigeria, the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) working in the energy sector, and the various technical reports sponsored by our technical partners. “In other words, we need evidence-based approach to fundamentally address the issues in the Niger Delta and the impacts on the power companies. Most of these power companies are indebted to the banking sector, thereby exposing the financial system to high risks. “A restructuring programme that could include a well-structured bail-out plan for the Discos should also not be ruled out. Technical and economic losses remain unacceptably high. Many debtor government agencies and powerful individuals and organisations are also indebted to the power companies. “The genuine concerns of the power companies must be addressed. However, they must also be held to high standard of probity and compliance with the terms of restructuring plan, including mergers if necessary. “The NERC should use more robustly stakeholders’ approach to ensure that decisions and pronouncements of the regulatory agency are mutually beneficial to all the stakeholders. “Finally, I hold strongly the view that the extant enabling legislation in the industry the Electric Power Sector Reform Act of 2015 should be reviewed.” For Mr Dada Thomas, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Frontier Oil Limited, the only long term and sustainable cure to the vandalisation problem and the sporadic civil unrests we are seeing is good governance. He explained that to achieve sustained good governance will take time and a major paradigm shift across all segments of the Nigerian society. He stated: “The issue of regional struggles for equitable distribution of resources (known as Resource Control in Nigeria) is neither new nor peculiar to Nigeria. Let’s learn from others who have also confronted and dealt with this problem. The Netherlands (Holland) and the United Kingdom are good case studies. “The bulk of the gas in The Netherlands is produced from the north of the country; in and around the Groningen, Drenthe and Friesland regions but many of the natives of these regions believe that most of the money generated by the exploitation of the natural gas resources has been used to develop the western parts of the country; The Hague, Rotterdam, Amsterdam etc. Similarly most of the United Kingdom’s oil comes from the North Sea much of which lie off the North East coast of Scotland. Many Scots argue that the bulk of the wealth generated from North Sea oil is spent in England thereby fueling much of the agitation for an independent Scotland. “These nations have been able to peacefully deal with the issue of resource control simply because they have good governance and strong stable institutions and are able to debate the issues instead of resorting to violence and destruction of national and private assets. Let us as a nation also work to achieve good governance at all levels but especially at the local government level”. As if in response to the suggestions put forward by stakeholders, NNPC said that it is liaising with key security agencies and other relevant stakeholders and has called for deeper collaboration to safeguard pipelines, gas stations, mega stations, refineries and other critical oil installations and facilities across the country.
Business
Nigerian Excellence in Medicine: Dr. Dennis Agbazue Makes History in South Africa with Groundbreaking Spine Surgery
Nigerian Excellence in Medicine: Dr. Dennis Agbazue Makes History in South Africa with Groundbreaking Spine Surgery
By George O. Sylvester
On March 22, 2025, a new chapter was written in the annals of spinal surgery in South Africa. In what medical professionals are hailing as a major breakthrough in minimally invasive spine treatment, Nigerian-born orthopaedic and spinal surgeon, Dr. Dennis Agbazue, successfully performed Gauteng Province’s first fully endoscopic lumbar spinal decompression and fusion at Mediclinic Vereeniging. This landmark procedure has not only redefined the surgical possibilities within the province but has also elevated South Africa’s standing in the realm of advanced spinal care. More importantly, it represents the growing global footprint of Nigerian professionals who are transforming lives and industries in their host countries.
The patient, a 55-year-old male suffering from spondylolisthesis; a condition where one vertebra slips over another, often causing debilitating nerve compression and spinal stenosis underwent a complex yet precise surgical procedure executed entirely through two tiny incisions. Known as the bi-portal endoscopic technique, this method allows for bilateral laminectomy (removal of part of the vertebral bone), disc removal and spinal fusion all done with minimal disruption to muscle and tissue. This technique, relatively new in South Africa, reduces hospital stay, speeds up recovery and offers patients immediate relief from pain.
This is a monumental stride, not just for Mediclinic Vereeniging but for the entire province of Gauteng. Until now, endoscopic spinal surgeries, especially bi-portal decompression and fusion, were rarely performed in the region due to their high level of technical difficulty and the need for specialized training and equipment. Dr. Agbazue’s success now opens the door to a future where such procedures become commonplace, benefiting thousands of patients suffering from chronic spinal conditions.
A Surgeon of Many Firsts
Dr. Agbazue is not new to trailblazing. Since 2022, he has emerged as one of the few spinal surgeons in South Africa proficient in both uni-portal and bi-portal endoscopic spinal techniques. His journey into endoscopic spine surgery began with the uni-portal approach, a technique that involves a single incision for both visualization and surgical instruments. Since adopting it, he has successfully completed approximately 330 cases, earning him accolades from both peers and patients.
What sets him apart is not just his technical expertise, but his commitment to patient-centered care and surgical innovation. The transition to the bi-portal technique in 2024 allowed Dr. Agbazue to tackle more complex spinal conditions with enhanced surgical visibility and dexterity. Unlike open surgery, which often requires long incisions and extended recovery periods, the bi-portal method uses two small portals, one for a camera and another for surgical tools enabling more precision and less trauma to surrounding tissues.
“This technique represents the future of spine surgery,” Dr. Agbazue noted. “We are now able to offer patients the best of both worlds: surgical efficacy and a rapid return to normal life. It’s truly transformative.”
Building a Hub of Excellence in Vereeniging
Since leading the first endoscopic spinal surgery at Mediclinic Vereeniging on August 9, 2022, Dr. Agbazue has been instrumental in transforming the facility into a center of excellence for minimally invasive spine care. By March 2024, he had performed over 200 successful endoscopic spinal procedures, with outstanding outcomes and low complication rates.
His collaboration with Q Surgical, a medical instrumentation firm, has played a pivotal role in advancing the hospital’s capabilities. Together, they have introduced state-of-the-art endoscopic equipment and surgical tools, ensuring that local patients receive world-class care without the need to travel abroad.
As a result, Mediclinic Vereeniging has seen an influx of patients from across Gauteng, including metropolitan hubs like Johannesburg and Pretoria, seeking treatment under Dr. Agbazue’s expert care. For many, this represents not only hope but a second chance at life free from the chronic pain and disability associated with spinal disorders.
Representing Nigeria with Pride
At a time when negative narratives often dominate discussions about Nigeria and its citizens abroad, individuals like Dr. Dennis Agbazue offer a powerful counter-narrative. A proud Nigerian, Dr. Agbazue embodies the resilience, intellect and work ethic that define the best of the Nigerian spirit. His achievements are not isolated; rather, they are part of a broader wave of Nigerian professionals excelling globally in medicine, law, academia, technology and business.
From the corridors of Johns Hopkins and Mayo Clinic in the United States to the consulting rooms of top hospitals in the UK, Canada and Australia, Nigerian doctors have built a formidable reputation for excellence. According to a 2021 report by the UK’s General Medical Council, over 7,000 Nigerian-trained doctors were registered to practice in the UK, one of the largest contingents of foreign-trained doctors. In the United States, Nigerian-Americans are among the most highly educated immigrant groups, with medicine ranking among the top professions.
In South Africa, despite facing xenophobic challenges, Nigerians like Dr. Agbazue continue to distinguish themselves through competence and integrity. They fill critical gaps in healthcare and education and contribute to national development in quiet yet powerful ways.
The Global Shift Toward Minimally Invasive Surgery
Dr. Agbazue’s success must also be seen within the global context of medical innovation. The past two decades have seen a seismic shift from traditional open surgeries to minimally invasive procedures across all specialties. Spinal surgery, once known for long recovery periods and high complication risks, has now embraced technologies such as robotics, navigation systems and endoscopic tools.
In endoscopic spinal surgery, the benefits are indisputable. Studies published in peer-reviewed journals such as The Spine Journal and Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine have shown that endoscopic techniques result in less blood loss, shorter operative times, lower infection rates and faster functional recovery compared to open surgery. This approach is particularly beneficial for older patients or those with comorbidities who might not tolerate extensive surgery well.
Dr. Agbazue’s use of bi-portal endoscopy aligns South African spinal care with these international best practices, giving local patients access to treatment modalities previously reserved for developed countries.
A Call to Celebrate Nigerian Excellence
As Nigerians, we must learn to recognize, amplify and celebrate our own. In a world quick to highlight the failures and shortcomings of African professionals, stories like that of Dr. Dennis Agbazue remind us of our boundless potential. These are the narratives that must dominate our airwaves, newspapers and social platforms not only as a source of national pride but as an inspiration to young Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.
The future of Nigeria lies in the excellence of its people. Whether in medicine, innovation or public service, it is those who dare to push boundaries and defy odds that will shape our nation’s global identity. In Dr. Agbazue, we find one such individual a healer, a pioneer, and a worthy ambassador of the Nigerian dream.
Final note
The March 22 procedure at Mediclinic Vereeniging was more than a surgical first, it was a testament to the transformative power of skill, vision and perseverance. Dr. Dennis Agbazue’s achievement has not only raised the bar for spinal surgery in South Africa but has also positioned him as a beacon of excellence among Nigerian professionals abroad.
As we look to the future, may we continue to support and celebrate the likes of Dr. Agbazue, whose work reminds us that, regardless of where we come from, greatness knows no boundaries.
A Home for Heritage: ILÉ IYÁN Opens Headquarters to Celebrate Nigerian Roots
ILÉ IYÁN, a proudly Nigerian culinary brand, has officially unveiled its state of the art headquarters with a 200 guest capacity facility. The grand opening ceremony not only marked a milestone in the company’s growth but also paid tribute to Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, drawing attention to the role of indigenous cuisine and tradition in promoting tourism across Lagos State.
The historic launch of the ILÉ IYÁN Headquarters held on Sunday the 11th May, 2025, now officially recognized as a national monument, took place in grand style, marking a significant milestone in the celebration and preservation of Nigerian cultural heritage and a major boost to the tourism industry.
The atmosphere was electric as the official opening ceremony of Ile Iyan’s new edifice commenced with a symbolic ribbon-cutting by the proud parents of the CEO, Alhaji and Alhaja Sanni. The emotional moment was met with cheers and applause from attendees, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s journey.
In a heartfelt speech, the CEO’s mother Alhaja Sanni shared her immense joy and pride in her son’s achievements. “I never imagined this day would come so soon. He defied all odds and has made us proud,” she said, her voice filled with emotion.
Celebrating Nigeria’s cultural richness, the event featured vibrant performances by Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa cultural troupes. Dressed in colourful traditional attire, the troupes dazzled the audience with electrifying dances that underscored the Ile Iyan brand’s commitment to promoting indigenous cuisine and cultural values.
The event was graced by notable dignitaries, including Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Abisola Olusanya; Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende; Special Adviser to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Culture and Tourism, Mr. Idris Aregbe; SSA on New Media, Mr. Jubril Gawat; Hon. Remi Durojaiye; Engr. Bola Babarinde; Prince Olu Kosoko of Badagry, Guiness World Record Holder, Dr Fola David; Mr Chigozie Okwara, Vice President of Culinary Arts Practitioners of Nigeria,Chef Dee; Culinary expert and Hospitality Consultant, Chef Gibbs; CEO of Novarick Homes and Properties Limited Mr Noah Ibrahim; Barrister Lateef Oyefeso, Barrister Gbolahan Oluyemi, Alhaji Mohammed Luqman, Alhaji Mojeed Animashaun, Alhaji Qudus Animashaun, Mr Emmanuel Akinseloyin, Alhaja Onigbanjo, Captain Dare, Alhaji Luqman Obileye, Mr Fola Gbemisola(Fatgbems), Mr Taiwo Kafidipe, Mr Ihuoma Raymond, the iconic music executive and cultural ambassador, Otunba Dayo Adeneye (D1) of Kennis Music, alongside Dr. Agarawu, numerous captains of industry, and cultural enthusiasts.
ILÉ IYÁN, long revered for its authentic celebration of Yoruba gastronomy particularly the traditional preparation of pounded yam has now been elevated to a symbol of national pride, serving as a cultural hub that connects history, heritage, food, and tourism. With its headquarters now officially open, ILÉ IYÁN is positioned as a dynamic force in reviving indigenous food practices, promoting cultural tourism, and offering immersive experiences rooted in Nigerian traditions.
In her keynote address, Mrs. Bisola Olusanya praised the initiative, stating: “ILÉ IYÁN is not just a space for food, it is a celebration of our roots, our resilience, and our creativity as Nigerians. This headquarters will play a vital role in our agricultural value chain while preserving culinary heritage for future generations.”
Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende emphasized the importance of youth engagement in cultural sustainability, while Hon. Idris Aregbe lauded ILÉ IYÁN as a “trailblazer in cultural entrepreneurship,” bridging the gap between tradition and innovation.
Mr. Sanni Afeez, General Manager of ILÉ IYÁN, Shares His Thoughts on the Launch
Speaking at the launch, the General Manager, Mr. Sanni Afeez, expressed his excitement and optimism about the future of the brand.
“This launch represents more than just a new building, it’s a bold step toward redefining the culinary and cultural experience in Nigeria,” he said. “ILÉ IYÁN is not just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of who we are as a people. From our locally inspired menu to the cultural performances that marked today’s opening, we are showcasing the beauty, depth, and unity of Nigerian heritage. This headquarters will serve as a hub for not only great food but also for cultural exchange and tourism growth in Lagos.”
Founder, CEO, and cultural curator of ILÉ IYÁN, Mr. Sanni Sheriff, shared a powerful message during the launch event, emphasizing the deeper vision behind the brand.
“This is not just a building; it is a movement,” he declared. “A space where the stories of our people, our food, and our shared heritage are honored and preserved.”
Mr Sanni Sheriff, known for his passion for cultural preservation and storytelling through cuisine, reiterated his commitment to creating a space that celebrates Nigeria’s diverse identity, promotes local tourism, and empowers future generations to take pride in their roots.
With this launch, ILÉ IYÁN cements its place as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s cultural renaissance and a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
EKAABO SI ILÉ IYÁN
EYIN OLOLUFE WA
For ILÉ IYÁN dining experience and food delivery kindly visit or contact any of our locations
ILÉ IYÁN HEADQUARTERS
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(OPPOSITE KINGFISHER/MARCOPOLO RESTAURANT)
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Email: ileiyan234@gmail.com
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