Nigeria’s national electricity grid achieved a significant milestone on Monday, reaching a record high of 5,313 megawatts the highest level in the past three years. This development was announced by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, during an event in Beijing, China, held on the eve of the African-China Cooperation Summit.
Addressing the event, Adelabu urged Distribution Companies (DISCOs) to capitalize on the increased power supply to avoid grid collapse. He explained that fluctuations in frequency occur when power is produced but not adequately distributed by DISCOs, and emphasized efforts to encourage industries to purchase bulk energy.
The event also saw the Nigerian Government sign two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the Chinese firm, Mutual Commitment Company Limited. These agreements, facilitated by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), aim to advance Nigeria’s renewable energy sector. Representing Nigeria were Minister Adelabu and REA Managing Director, Abba Aliyu.
Adelabu described the MoU signing as a pivotal moment for Nigeria, aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He praised the REA and the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN) for their efforts, highlighting the importance of the agreements in achieving Nigeria’s renewable energy goals.
The minister underscored the government’s commitment to expanding energy access and transitioning to cleaner, sustainable energy sources. He noted that nearly 40% of Nigeria’s population still lacks reliable energy access, leading to significant challenges. The shift towards a distributed power model, focusing on renewable energy, is expected to address these issues and support rural areas, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities.
Adelabu set ambitious targets for the country, including achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2060 and sourcing 30% of energy generation from renewable sources by 2030. He emphasized that the MoUs will help build local capacity, create jobs, and reduce dependency on imported resources.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s energy status, Adelabu compared it with northern African countries like Tunisia, Morocco, Egypt, and Algeria, which have achieved near-total electrification. He expressed the urgency for Nigeria to improve its 62% electrification rate, leveraging its abundant natural resources, including gas, hydropower, wind, and solar energy.
Abba Aliyu of the REA reaffirmed the significance of the MoUs in delivering on the presidential mandate to build local capacity and enhance job creation. He highlighted ongoing projects, including power plants in Maiduguri and Kaduna, and committed to tracking the economic impact of these initiatives.
Mutual Commitment Company Limited’s Vice Chairman, Yan Zhezhu, expressed appreciation for the collaboration with Nigeria and its ongoing projects, emphasizing the company’s commitment to furthering energy development in the country.
