By Hosea Parah, Abuja
On the eve of Nigeria’s Independence Day, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, delivered an encouraging update on the country’s electricity supply improvements over the past year. With the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Adelabu announced that over 40% of Nigerians now receive more than 20 hours of daily electricity, a significant enhancement for a sector historically marked by inconsistencies.
Reflecting on the ministry’s progress since its establishment on May 29, 2023, Adelabu revealed that the nation’s power generation capacity has increased from about 4,000 megawatts to over 5,500 megawatts, partly due to the commissioning of new hydroelectric facilities. He underscored the importance of reliable electricity for economic development, citing examples from developed countries like South Korea and China, where stable energy supplies have played a critical role in industrial growth.
“Reliable electricity is vital for any economy,” Adelabu emphasized, noting its significance for various sectors, including education, healthcare, and industry. He detailed several transformative measures taken by the government, including the enactment of the new Electricity Act of 2023, which decentralizes the power sector and empowers state and local governments to engage in generation, transmission, and distribution.
The Minister also highlighted the need for a comprehensive policy framework to tackle issues related to market liquidity and tariff structures. The introduction of a partial cost-reflective tariff aims to motivate power companies to improve service delivery while still providing subsidies for low-income consumers.
Infrastructure upgrades have been a priority, with substantial advancements in transmission and distribution systems. Adelabu noted the arrival of new power transformers and mobile substations, which are essential for enhancing the stability of the electricity network. Additionally, the ministry is addressing the meter gap by planning to install over 10 million meters within the next five years.
Beyond enhancing grid power supply, the government is pursuing renewable energy initiatives for underserved areas. Adelabu introduced the Nigerian Electrification Program, which focuses on supplying solar energy to universities and health institutions while also providing mini-grid solutions to rural communities.
The Minister reiterated the ministry’s dedication to delivering stable and affordable electricity to all Nigerians, a crucial factor for driving economic growth and job creation. As the country continues to tackle its energy challenges, the initiatives launched in the past year reflect a strong commitment to reshaping Nigeria’s power landscape.