Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has introduced a comprehensive energy access initiative designed to accelerate progress in the country’s electricity sector.
He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7), which aims to provide universal access to modern energy services.
The newly launched program, known as the National Energy Compact (NEC), sets ambitious targets, including increasing electricity access from 4% to 9% annually to bridge the nation’s energy gap. Additionally, it aims to enhance clean cooking access from 22% to 25% annually and expand the share of renewable energy in Nigeria’s power mix from 22% to 50%.
As part of the strategy, the government also plans to mobilize $15.5 billion in private sector investments to accelerate last-mile electrification efforts.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Tunji Bolaji, Adelabu highlighted the program’s transformative impact, stating that it would “expand electricity access, increase renewable energy adoption, and improve clean cooking solutions for millions of Nigerians.” He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to energy access, remarking, “With 150 million Nigerians already electrified, Nigeria remains committed to ensuring universal access to affordable and sustainable energy by 2030.”
While outlining the roadmap for energy expansion, the minister acknowledged the challenges posed by vandalism, which continues to threaten power infrastructure. He noted that attacks on transmission towers, pipelines, and distribution equipment disrupt electricity supply and discourage investment in the sector.
To address this, Adelabu stressed the need to safeguard power assets, adding that the government is stepping up efforts to curb vandalism through enhanced security, stricter penalties, and improved surveillance technologies to ensure a reliable power supply.
According to him, attracting investment is key to achieving Nigeria’s electrification goals. He stated, “The Compact outlines a $23.2 billion investment target, with $15.5 billion expected from private investors. These funds will be directed toward expanding power generation, strengthening transmission and distribution networks, and integrating distributed renewable energy solutions.”
He further noted that by implementing the National Energy Compact, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s energy transition while unlocking economic opportunities.
He added, “By implementing the action plan in the National Energy Compact, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s energy transition and creating opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and industrialization. As the Mission 300 initiative gains momentum, Nigeria’s strong commitment to energy sector reforms, infrastructure expansion, and investment mobilization will be crucial in shaping the future of electricity access across the continent.”
