The Federal Government plans to expand Nigeria’s electricity grid capacity by an additional 4,000 megawatts (MW) by the end of 2026, with an aspirational goal of reaching 6,000MW, under a renewed strategic energy initiative.
In a statement issued by Bolaji Tunji, Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations to the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, the government said it had engaged reputable Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) companies to fast-track the implementation of this new direction, approved by President Bola Tinubu.
According to the statement, the President endorsed the rollout of critical power distribution infrastructure to be delivered by EPC firms with proven technical and financial capacity.
“The strategic decisions aim to increase grid capacity by an additional 4,000MW by the end of 2026, with an aspirational target of 2,000MW more, as directed by the Economic Management Team in 2024,” the statement read.
A cornerstone of this initiative is the revitalisation of the Siemens-backed Presidential Power Initiative (PPI). Adelabu noted that the current administration has brought renewed momentum to the long-delayed project, with key milestones already achieved since its inception in 2023.
As part of the pilot phase of the PPI, 10 power transformers and 10 mobile substations were successfully installed and commissioned nationwide by October 2023. These assets were manufactured and delivered as part of the initial rollout phase.
“No significant progress was made on the project until this administration came into office. The achievements recorded since May 29, 2023, are evidence of a focused and determined government agenda,” Adelabu said.
The Minister also highlighted the start of initiation activities for the main phase of the PPI in early 2024, aimed at accelerating nationwide implementation.
In addition to progress under the Siemens project, the Federal Government Power Company has completed multiple transmission projects across Nigeria, boosting transmission wheeling capacity by over 700MW, according to the statement.
These improvements, Adelabu said, have enhanced power supply to industrial clusters, universities, businesses, and residential areas, reflecting the administration’s commitment to transforming energy access and reliability.
“There is no doubt that the Siemens project has witnessed significant improvements since the inauguration of this administration,” added Bolaji Tunji.
Adelabu reaffirmed the Ministry’s resolve to deliver tangible results in the power sector that directly benefit Nigerians and the national economy.
