Over 40% of Nigerians Now Enjoy 20-Hour Electricity Supply, Says Power Minister

Over 40 percent of electricity consumers across the country now receive more than 20 hours of regular electricity supply, according to the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu. The minister made this announcement in a statement released on Sunday, providing a review of the power ministry’s progress over the past year.

Adelabu credited this improvement to revolutionary measures aimed at stabilizing and expanding the nation’s electricity supply. He noted that Nigeria currently generates more than 5,500 megawatts of power, which is being efficiently transmitted and distributed to consumers.

“Over 40 percent of customers now enjoy more than 20 hours of uninterrupted power supply across the nation,” said Adelabu. “There has been a significant improvement since we came into office, and we are committed to further enhancing this progress.”

He emphasized that these advancements are part of President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” which prioritizes stable electricity as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s industrial and economic development.

Powering Economic Growth

Adelabu highlighted the role of stable electricity in driving industrialization, comparing Nigeria’s ambitions to nations like South Korea, China, and the United States. “Countries like Korea and China became industrial giants thanks to stable electricity. This is the vision we have for Nigeria,” he stated.

The minister stressed the critical role electricity plays in other sectors, including manufacturing, health, and education. “Without reliable electricity, none of these sectors can function optimally,” he added.

Adelabu outlined the government’s vision to ensure stable electricity for households, businesses, and institutions, which will enhance productivity, improve capacity, and create jobs across the country.

Collaboration with Global Partners

The minister also provided insight into Nigeria’s collaborations with various international development agencies, including the World Bank, African Development Bank, USAID, and others, to boost the country’s power sector. He explained that the Ministry of Power works closely with 27 power-generating companies, including hydroelectric and thermal plants, as well as 11 electricity distribution companies nationwide.

Increasing Capacity

Upon assuming office, Adelabu said Nigeria had an installed generation capacity of 13,000 megawatts but was only able to produce and distribute about 4,000 megawatts, which was insufficient for the country’s population and economic needs.

Since then, capacity has increased to over 14,000 megawatts, thanks in part to the commissioning of the Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Plant and improvements in existing power plants. Additionally, the adoption of renewable energy sources, particularly solar, has grown significantly.

The minister expressed confidence that these strides will continue, with a focus on ensuring that more Nigerians enjoy reliable and consistent power, fueling the nation’s economic growth and industrial development.