The Nigerian government is taking bold steps to improve the nation’s electricity supply, with plans to add 150 megawatts to the National grid by January 2025. This was revealed by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, during a meeting at the Presidential Villa.
Adelabu explained that this development is part of the Siemens Presidential Power Initiative, a collaboration between Nigeria and Germany aimed at enhancing the country’s electricity infrastructure. The Minister shared that the pilot phase of the project is 80% complete, with 10 power transformers and 10 mobile substations installed and commissioned. This has already added 750 megawatts to the grid, contributing to the relative stability seen today.
The addition of 150 megawatts will mark the completion of the pilot phase, after which the project will enter its first phase. This phase will involve upgrading 14 existing substations and constructing 23 new ones across the country. Adelabu stressed the importance of overhauling Nigeria’s aging power grid to ensure stable electricity in the future.
“This is an old grid—fragile and dilapidated. Revamping it is crucial for stability going forward,” he said.
The Minister also highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to renewable energy through its energy transition plan, which aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2060. He emphasized the country’s abundant resources, such as solar energy from over 30 states with at least 10 hours of daily sunshine, as well as wind energy from coastal and desert regions.
Collaboration with Germany, which has advanced technology, will play a vital role in utilizing these resources effectively. Adelabu noted that the new Lagos-to-Calabar highway will help open up offshore wind potential in Nigeria’s nine coastal states.
Adelabu proposed off-grid power systems as a solution to the country’s electricity challenges. He suggested that each of Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) develop their own generating plants embedded within the state. This approach will ensure uninterrupted power supply even during National grid disruptions.
The government remains focused on partnerships, technological advancements, and renewable energy to transform Nigeria’s power sector for the better.
