The Nigerian Government is poised to boost the national electricity grid with an additional 4,000 megawatts (MW) by the end of 2026.
In a statement issued by Bolaji Tunji, Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations to the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, it was revealed that the government has enlisted the services of reputable Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) firms to fast-track the process. This move is part of a new strategic direction approved by President Bola Tinubu.
Tunji explained that the president has authorised a distribution framework to be executed by EPC companies with the necessary technical expertise, financial capability, and funding capacity.
“These strategic decisions are aimed at increasing grid capacity by an additional 4,000MW by the end of 2026, with an aspirational target of a further 2,000MW, as set out by the Economic Management Team for 2024,” he stated.
A key milestone already achieved under the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) is the installation and commissioning of 10 power transformers and 10 mobile substations across the country during its pilot phase, which was completed in October 2023.
Adelabu highlighted that the current administration’s commitment has not only revived the Siemens-led Presidential Power Initiative but also laid the foundation for a more reliable power supply across critical sectors of the economy.
“The inception of this administration in 2023 brought renewed momentum to the Siemens Power Project, with an accelerated contract signed to ensure meaningful progress,” the minister said.
He emphasised that “no tangible progress had been made on the project until this government assumed office”, noting that the strides made since 29 May 2023 are evidence of a focused and determined agenda.
“There is no doubt that the Siemens project has seen substantial progress since the start of this administration,” Tunji added.
According to the statement, one of the major accomplishments thus far is the successful commissioning of the aforementioned transformers and substations nationwide under the PPI’s pilot phase.
Additionally, it was disclosed that the Federal Government initiated activities for the main phase of the PPI in 2024, paving the way for more extensive implementation. The Federal Government Power Company has also executed numerous transmission projects nationwide, collectively increasing transmission wheeling capacity by over 700MW.
This progress, it was noted, has significantly improved power delivery to industrial clusters, businesses, universities, and residential communities.
Adelabu reaffirmed the Ministry of Power’s dedication to delivering tangible results that will enhance electricity access and reliability across the country.
