By Muhammad Mamman
Despite Nigeria’s energy shortfall, the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) is prioritizing renewables and strategic exports, says Director-General Mustafa Abdullahi. In a concise interview, Abdullahi revealed Nigeria’s power generation has surged from 4,000 to 6,000 megawatts since 2023, with 60% of citizens now connected. Yet, 85 million remain without electricity.
Abdullahi highlighted the 2023 Electricity Act, which decentralizes power, allowing states to generate and regulate electricity. “We’re building state capacity and attracting investors,” he said, noting pilot projects starting at 5 megawatts per state. Solar energy is central to Nigeria’s strategy, aiming to reduce reliance on gas (86%) and hydro (12%) and phase out tariff bands like A and B.
On exports to Benin Republic, Abdullahi explained that sharing 6% of Nigeria’s hydropower is a strategic move to maintain regional waterway agreements. “It’s not about selling; it’s economic and diplomatic goodwill,” he clarified.
The ECN is also pushing electric vehicles (EVs), with free trade zones earmarked for EV production and the commission adopting EV fleets. “Charge your car at our office and go,” Abdullahi urged, signaling a sustainable future.
