Nigeria’s power sector has recorded a modest boost, with electricity generation rising from 3,951MW to 4,300MW between March 28 and April 10.
The Federal Government attributed the improvement largely to increased gas supply to power plants. The update was shared in Abuja by Bolaji Tunji, Special Adviser to the Minister of Power on Media and Communications.
According to him, the progress aligns with an earlier assurance by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, who had promised noticeable improvements in electricity supply within two weeks.
For months, power shortages across the country have been linked to inadequate gas supply, driven in part by outstanding debts owed to gas suppliers.
Tunji revealed that gas supply rose from about 605 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) to over 704 mmscfd, helping to lift power generation levels.
Operational performance also improved, with mechanical capacity exceeding 7,796MW and operational capacity climbing from about 4,208MW to more than 4,694MW—an indication of better efficiency in converting gas into electricity.
While daily output fluctuated, the overall trend points to gradual recovery, supported by improved coordination among key players in the sector.
To sustain the gains, the government has established a Gas-to-Power Monitoring Committee to address supply challenges and strengthen collaboration between gas suppliers and generation companies.
In addition, the Minister has directed the Nigeria Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) to boost internally generated revenue and reduce reliance on government funding.
The agency has also been tasked with expanding meter testing centres and partnering with the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN) to train more technicians and ease meter shortages.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has approved a N3.3 trillion plan to settle long-standing debts in the power sector, accumulated over the past decade. The payments will be made in phases to ensure transparency.
However, the move has drawn skepticism from some Nigerians, who question whether the funding will translate into meaningful improvements. Former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, also raised concerns, noting that similar approvals were made in 2024.
