Nigeria’s Ministry of Power Mr Joseph Tegbe, says that the Federal Government is targeting 20,000 megawatts of electricity generation within the next three to five years, as part of efforts to achieve stable power supply across the country.
The Ministry of Power, in a statement, said the Minister of Power, Mr Joseph
Mr. Tegbe said during a television interview on Tuesday that the government was pursuing a long-term strategy to expand generation capacity, strengthen transmission infrastructure, develop renewable energy and attract more private sector investment.
He expressed optimism that Nigerians would begin to enjoy more stable electricity within the next three to five years.
According to him, the government is moving beyond the long-standing 10,000MW generation target, with several projects in the pipeline capable of increasing the country’s generation capacity to about 20,000MW.
He said that the government was engaging private investors and development partners to accelerate the projects.
Tegbe also disclosed that Aliko Dangote had expressed commitment to supporting the country’s ambition to achieve the 20,000MW target.
He identified the 3,000MW Mambila Hydropower Project as a major component of the generation expansion plan.
The minister disclosed that Nigerian President has directed him to engage with northern states to secure their participation in the project.
He added that Chinese companies had indicated interest in supporting its development through potential financing from China Exim Bank in collaboration with Sinohydro.
The minister also said that the government was exploring small hydropower opportunities across the country and that a policy on small hydropower was nearing completion.
The statement by the ministry of power quoted the minister as saying that 21 dams had been identified along the proposed Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway for possible hydropower development, with the President’s approval already secured and discussions ongoing with prospective investors.
The statement stated that the minister explained that the initiatives would expand electricity generation options and improve power supply across different parts of the country.
He identified the Electricity Act 2023 as another major driver of the government’s electricity expansion agenda, noting that it had opened the sector to state governments and private investors.
According to him, the law allows states to develop electricity markets and pursue solutions such as mini-grids and gas-fired power plants based on their needs.
He explained that decentralising the electricity sector will complement the national grid, improve access and create more investment opportunities.
The minister also called for increased private sector participation in transmission and distribution of power in order to provide the capital and technical expertise needed to modernise the sector.
He said that Nigeria’s future electricity demand would be driven by population growth, industrial expansion and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, data infrastructure and remote working.
Tegbe disclosed that the government was prioritising the stabilisation of the national grid and optimal utilisation of existing generation capacity while investing in infrastructure to meet future demand.
GIK/APA