The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced an initiative aimed at significantly increasing power generation to 6000 megawatts through the utilization of hydro and solar plants.
This revelation was made by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, during a visit by members of the Senate Committee on Power to the ministry in Abuja on Monday.
Minister Adelabu outlined the government’s strategy to ramp up power production, citing the need to address the current shortfall in electricity generation. He expressed dismay at the current peak generation capacity, which stands at only 5800 megawatts, emphasizing the underutilization of existing infrastructure due to insufficient maintenance.
“With proper investment, we can achieve 6000 megawatts before the end of 2024,” Minister Adelabu stated, highlighting the potential of untapped resources such as hydro and solar energy.
In addition to enhancing generation capacity, the minister underscored plans to overhaul Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos), labeling them as pivotal players in the power supply chain. He emphasized the need for DisCos to perform efficiently, hinting at regulatory measures, including the possibility of license withdrawal for non-performance.
“We are restructuring DisCos along state lines to enhance operational efficiency,” Minister Adelabu explained, signaling a move towards decentralization to ensure better accountability and service delivery.
The minister emphasized the government’s resolve to reclaim its role in managing the power sector, citing the need for increased governmental involvement after what he described as prolonged reliance on the private sector.
Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe, Chairman of the Committee, stated the urgency of addressing challenges in the power sector, citing poor electricity supply and grid collapses as pressing issues. He noted that the committee had invited the ministry for an investigative hearing on tariff increases, scheduled for April 29, underlining the importance of public engagement in policy decisions affecting power consumers.
