In a bold move to address its persistent electricity challenges, the Nigerian government has launched an ambitious energy access programme aimed at transforming the nation’s power sector.
Led by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, this initiative is set to drive sector-wide improvements, with a total investment of $23.2 billion, out of which $15.5 billion is expected to come from private sector participation.
This programme, known as the National Energy Compact, emerged as a key outcome of the recently concluded Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The summit, which brought together African leaders, business executives, and development partners, focused on expanding electricity access to 300 million Africans by 2030.
Through this initiative, the Nigerian government aims to significantly increase access to electricity, improve the adoption of clean cooking solutions, and expand renewable energy’s contribution to the national power mix.
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The plan aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7), which promotes universal access to modern energy services. Minister Adelabu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that Nigeria, where over 150 million people are already electrified, achieves full energy access by 2030.
Despite the clear roadmap, the power sector faces significant challenges. One of the most pressing issues is the vandalism of critical infrastructure, including transmission towers, pipelines, and distribution equipment. Such attacks disrupt electricity supply and deter potential investors.
To combat these threats, the government is intensifying security efforts, enforcing stricter penalties, and deploying advanced surveillance technologies to safeguard power assets.
Investment remains a crucial element of this transformation. Recognizing that public resources alone cannot meet the demands of the sector, the government is actively encouraging private sector participation.
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The funds generated through this programme will be directed towards expanding power generation capacity, strengthening transmission and distribution networks, and integrating renewable energy solutions across the country.
Minister Adelabu has called on development partners, philanthropists, and investors to support this transformative journey. By implementing the National Energy Compact, Nigeria is not only advancing its own energy security but also positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s clean energy transition.
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The reality of Nigeria’s power supply remains challenging. Despite being Africa’s largest economy and home to over 200 million people, the country generates only 4,500 megawatts (MW) of electricity.
Efforts made in 2024 to increase capacity to 6,000MW were hindered by continued vandalism and frequent grid failures. As a result, more than 250 companies and institutions have chosen to disconnect from the national grid, opting for self-generated electricity instead.
With the Mission 300 initiative gaining traction, Nigeria’s commitment to power sector reforms, infrastructure expansion, and investment mobilization will be key to shaping the future of electricity access in Africa.
By fostering partnerships, securing investments, and embracing renewable energy, the country is taking a significant step toward a future where energy is accessible, affordable, and sustainable for all. If fully realized, this initiative could mark the beginning of a new era of economic growth and energy security for Nigeria.
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