In a decisive move to fast-track Nigeria’s energy transition, the Federal Government has launched the National Integrated Electricity Policy (NIEP) and the Integrated Resources Plan (NIRP), marking a significant step toward a more sustainable and efficient power sector. The unveiling ceremony, held in Abuja on Thursday, brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, international partners, and industry experts.
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, described the NIEP as an important framework designed to guide Nigeria’s power sector transformation. He emphasized that the policy would ensure that electrification efforts are data-driven, realistic, and aligned with the nation’s broader energy transition objectives.
The NIRP, on the other hand, provides a roadmap for achieving least-cost electrification and optimizing available energy resources. Both policies are expected to drive Nigeria toward universal energy access, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and enhance power supply reliability.
The minister highlighted the economic benefits embedded in these policies, particularly their potential to boost small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large industries by mitigating the operational disruptions caused by power shortages. With a more stable electricity supply, businesses can operate more efficiently, fostering job creation and regional development.
Adelabu reaffirmed that these initiatives align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes energy as a catalyst for economic growth and industrialization.
Reflecting on past achievements, Adelabu noted that 2024 was a year of significant milestones in the power sector. He cited over a billion dollars in investments, the transition toward full commercialization of the electricity industry, and an increase in power generation capacity from 4,200 megawatts in 2023 to an average of 5,300 megawatts in 2024.
He also outlined future opportunities in Nigeria’s power sector, including closing transmission and distribution gaps, expanding hydropower potential, and integrating large-scale renewable energy sources into the grid.
The minister acknowledged the pivotal role of private sector participation in achieving these goals. He stressed that the government is committed to creating an enabling environment for private investments, innovation, and expertise in the electricity industry. He expressed gratitude to the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the UK Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility (UKNIAF) for their collaboration in developing Nigeria’s energy policies.
Sally Woolhouse, Head of Economic Development at the FCDO in Nigeria, reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s infrastructure and economic growth. She highlighted the long-standing relationship between the two nations and underscored the importance of policy-driven, technology-based energy planning in achieving sustainable development. She emphasized that the UK would continue working with Nigeria to foster mutually beneficial strategic partnerships in the energy sector.
As Nigeria advances its energy transition agenda, the newly launched policies signal a shift toward a more resilient and investor-friendly power sector. With a clear strategic direction and strengthened international partnerships, the government aims to position Nigeria as a regional leader in clean and sustainable energy.
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