Nigeria needs $10 billion annually to fix power sector – Minister

From Noah Ebije, Kaduna

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has stated that Nigeria requires $10 billion annually for the next 10 to 20 years to resolve the persistent power sector crisis.

Speaking on Tuesday at the commissioning of a 600kW solar PV power plant (Phase 1) at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna, Adelabu expressed optimism that, despite the challenge, the goal is achievable with strategic reforms.

“For us to achieve functional, reliable, and stable electricity in Nigeria, we need not less than 10 billion dollars annually for the next ten to twenty years,” Adelabu said. He outlined key bottlenecks, including legislative gaps, infrastructure deficits, and metering shortages.

The Electricity Act 2023 has addressed legislative issues by decentralising the power sector, enabling states and local governments to participate in generation, transmission, distribution, and metering. Over 11 states have gained autonomy, with more expected to follow.

Adelabu highlighted a 60-year infrastructure deficit due to poor maintenance and insufficient investment, particularly in the transmission grid. He also noted a metering gap exceeding 50%, which the Presidential Metering Initiative aims to bridge by installing 18 million meters over the next five years.

Addressing NDA military officers, Adelabu described the 600kW and 3MW solar PV projects, implemented by the Federal Ministry of Power and the Rural Electrification Agency, as part of efforts to diversify energy sources and support critical institutions. “Powering the Academy with renewable energy aligns with our vision for a secure, self-reliant, and energy-efficient Nigeria,” he said, aligning the project with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Adelabu commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for protecting power infrastructure but raised concerns about rising vandalism and attacks on sector personnel. He referenced a recent incident involving military personnel and Ikeja Electric staff, urging mutual respect to avoid such conflicts. “The power sector and the military are not on opposing sides; we are allies in the pursuit of national development,” he emphasised.

NDA Commandant Major General Abdul Ibrahim expressed appreciation for the power sector initiative and assured continued collaboration with the Ministry of Power.