Power Challenges in Bauchi: Why Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JED) Must Step Up for its Communities -By Yasir Shehu Adam

Electricity supply is a major challenge for communities across Nigeria, with Jos Electricity Distribution (JED) Company serving as a prominent example of why service improvements are urgently needed. In Bauchi and nearby areas, including New GRA (Behind Kaura’s house along Pali Suite Hotel), residents are feeling the effects of JED’s inadequate response to power issues. Many communities face long delays before power problems are addressed, often having to raise funds themselves to get repairs done—an obligation that should rest with the distribution company, not with residents.

When power outages or equipment failures occur, JED’s response time is frequently slow, leaving neighborhoods in the dark and unable to carry out basic activities. Without consistent electricity, residents struggle to pump water, operate essential appliances, and keep their businesses running smoothly. For example, in 2020, Lushi Community was forced to raise 100,000 Naira to replace an electric cable in their transformer—a cost that should have been covered by JED, as the equipment belongs to the distribution company, not the community.

My area, New GRA, has been without power for over two weeks due to a transformer issue, and despite repeated complaints, JED has yet to resolve the problem. This prolonged blackout has disrupted daily life, damaged property, and left families unable to afford the costly alternative of running personal generators. Now, our community leaders are pooling funds to repair the transformer themselves, understanding that waiting any longer for JED to act could mean months more without electricity.

These recurring issues highlight JED’s failure to invest in adequate infrastructure and respond to customers’ needs. The transformer serving our community is overloaded, struggling to meet the demands placed on it. It’s clear that a new or upgraded transformer is necessary for stable power in our area.

In light of these difficulties, I urge His Excellency, Governor Bala Mohammed (Kauran Bauchi), to consider providing a new transformer to support the residents in New GRA. Additionally, I appeal to Distinguished Senator Shehu Buba Umar, representing Bauchi South Senatorial District, to support us in obtaining a reliable power supply. Your leadership has brought improvements to other communities, and we hope that our neighborhood will also benefit from your commitment.

The power supply situation in Bauchi—and many parts of Nigeria—calls for urgent action. Communities pay their bills but are still underserved. If distribution companies like JED cannot effectively serve their customers, perhaps it is time to explore alternatives, including stronger government involvement, to ensure reliable electricity for all.

This article was penned by Yasir Shehu Adam (Danliman), a young journalist and writer from Bauchi, calling for accountability and change in Nigeria’s power distribution sector.