Electric Shockwave: FG Unveils Ambitious Plan To Supercharge Nigeria’s National Grid

The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced plans to boost the national grid capacity by 4,000 megawatts (MW) by the end of 2026, as part of an ambitious energy expansion agenda.

This was revealed in a statement by Bolaji Tunji, Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations to the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu. Tunji noted that the Federal Government has engaged top-tier Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) firms to fast-track the initiative under a renewed strategy approved by President Tinubu.

The President has also authorized a distribution framework to be implemented by capable EPC contractors with proven technical and financial capabilities.

These strategic interventions aim to deliver an additional 4,000 MW by 2026, with a further target of 2,000 MW set by the Economic Management Team for 2024.

Implementation of the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) is already underway, highlighted by the installation and commissioning of 10 power transformers and 10 mobile substations across Nigeria during the Pilot Phase of the PPI. These units, manufactured and delivered in October 2023, marked a major milestone in the administration’s power reform efforts.

According to Tunji, Minister Adelabu stressed that the Tinubu administration has breathed new life into the Siemens-led PPI, creating a clear path to improving electricity supply for critical sectors of the Nigerian economy.

He quoted the Minister saying, “The start of this administration in 2023 brought renewed energy to the Siemens Power Project, with an accelerated contract signed to ensure tangible progress. There was little to no movement on the project before this government took office.”

Tunji added, “The progress we’ve seen since May 29, 2023, reflects the administration’s focused and determined approach. The Siemens project has gained real momentum under President Tinubu.”

Among the notable achievements are the successful commissioning of transformers and mobile substations nationwide, marking the completion of the pilot phase. Preparations have also begun for the main phase of the PPI, expected to launch in 2024.

In addition, the Federal Government Power Company is spearheading several transmission projects nationwide, resulting in an increase of over 700 MW in transmission wheeling capacity.