Nigeria’s national grid reached a record high of 5,313 megawatts, marking the highest peak in three years, according to the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu.
Speaking at an event in Beijing, China, on the eve of the African-China Cooperation Summit, Adelabu called on Distribution Companies (DISCOs) to utilize the increased energy capacity to prevent grid collapse.
Adelabu explained that frequency drops occur when power generated is not picked up by DISCOs, emphasizing the need for industries to purchase bulk energy.
The Federal Government also signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Mutual Commitment Company Limited, facilitated by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), to boost Nigeria’s renewable energy sector.
The event, attended by Adelabu and REA Managing Director Abba Aliyu, aims to enhance local capacity and expand energy access, particularly in rural areas.
Adelabu stressed that adopting a distributed power model is crucial for reducing Nigeria’s reliance on centralized power and achieving the government’s targets of 30% renewable energy by 2030 and net zero carbon emissions by 2060.
Adelabu highlighted Nigeria’s low electrification rate of 62%, compared to other African nations with near-universal access. He called for greater use of Nigeria’s natural resources, including gas, hydropower, wind, and solar, to improve energy access and drive economic growth.
Mutual Commitment Company Limited, already involved in power projects in Maiduguri and Kaduna, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s energy expansion.
The collaboration is expected to create jobs, boost local manufacturing, and contribute significantly to the nation’s GDP.
