The Federal Government of Nigeria has unveiled an ambitious energy access programme to transform Nigeria’s energy sector.
A statement by the spokesperson to Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Bolaji Tunji, stated that the Minister, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, is spearheading the programme that will require $23.2 billion, out of which $15.5 billion will be provided by the private sector.
According to the programme, the programme is also the fallout from the just-concluded Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit held in Dar es Salam, Tanzania.
The two-day summit, which brought together African leaders, business executives, and development partners to advance the continent’s ambitious energy agenda was hosted by the Government of Tanzania, the African Union, the African Development Bank Group, and the World Bank Group, and aims to accelerate electricity access for 300 million Africans by 2030.
“Through the energy access programme, tagged National Energy Compact, the government aims to increase electricity access from four per cent to nine per cent annually to close the energy gap, boost access to clean cooking solutions from 22 per cent to 25 per cent annually, expand renewable energy’s share in the power generation mix from 22 per cent to 50 per cent, and mobilise $15.5bn in private investment to drive last-mile electrification,” the statement said.
It added that the efforts align with United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goal 7, which seeks to ensure universal access to modern energy services.
While unveiling the programme, the minister said that it would expand electricity access, increase renewable energy adoption, and improve clean cooking solutions for millions of Nigerians.
“With 150 million Nigerians already electrified, Nigeria remains committed to ensuring universal access to affordable and sustainable energy by 2030,” the minister had said.
Adelabu reportedly noted that while the roadmap for expansion is clear, challenges such as vandalism of power infrastructure pose a significant threat to Nigeria’s electrification efforts.
He expressed worry that transmission towers, pipelines, and distribution equipment are being targeted, disrupting supply and deterring potential investors.
According to him, achieving Nigeria’s electrification targets requires significant investment, and the government is prioritising private sector participation to unlock additional resources.
“The compact outlines a $23.2bn investment target, with $15.5bn expected from private investors. These funds will be directed toward expanding power generation, strengthening transmission and distribution networks, and integrating distributed renewable energy solutions,” he said.
GIK/APA