Prosper Okoye
Residents of Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, are expected to see a temporary return of public water supply after electricity was restored to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Water Board, following days of disruption that affected households across the city.
The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) said the reconnection came after complaints and appeals from residents, whose access to water was cut off when power supply to the Water Board was disconnected over unpaid electricity bills.
AEDC explained that the Water Board had accumulated more than one year of outstanding electricity debt, despite repeated notices and engagements to regularise its account, prompting the initial disconnection in line with regulatory rules.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelHowever, the power firm said it approved the restoration in recognition of the essential role of water supply in public health and community wellbeing, particularly in a city of more than three million people.
The decision, according to AEDC, was taken on the directive of its Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Chijioke Okwuokenye, to allow for the immediate resumption of water services in affected parts of the Federal Capital Territory.
The company stressed that the reconnection is temporary and conditional, giving the FCT Water Board two weeks to present and begin implementing a credible repayment plan for its outstanding electricity obligations.
AEDC warned that failure to meet the deadline could result in another power disconnection, adding that such action would be taken strictly in line with regulatory guidelines.
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The electricity distributor reiterated that service disconnection remains a measure of last resort, while assuring residents of its commitment to transparency, regulatory compliance and the delivery of sustainable electricity services in Abuja.
Prosper Okoye is a Correspondent and Research Writer at Prime Business Africa, a Nigerian journalist with experience in development reporting, public affairs, and policy-focused storytelling across Africa
