FG unveils energy transformation programme at Tanzania summit

Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu

The Federal Government has unveiled an ambitious energy access programme that will see to the transformation of the nation’s energy sector.

The programme which will ensure transformation of the sector is being spear-headed by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu.

It is also a fallout from the just concluded Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit held in Dar es Salam, Tanzania.

The two-day summit which brought together African leaders, business executives, and development partners to advance the continent’s ambitious energy agenda was hosted by the Government of Tanzania, the African Union, the African Development Bank Group, and the World Bank Group.

Through the energy access programme, tagged National Energy Compact (NEC), the government aims to increase electricity access from four per cent to nine per cent annually to close energy gap, boost access to clean cooking solutions from 22 per cent to 25 per cent annually, expand renewable energy’s share in the power generation mix from 22 per cent to 50 per cent, and mobilize $15.5 billion in private investment to drive last-mile electrification.

While unveiling the ambitious programme, Adelabu said it will expand electricity access, increase renewable energy adoption, and improve clean cooking solutions for millions of Nigerians.

‘To protect power infrastructure’: Adelabu speaks on N8bn budget

“With 150 million Nigerians already electrified, Nigeria remains committed to ensuring universal access to affordable and sustainable energy by 2030,” the minister said.

Adelabu noted that while the roadmap for expansion is clear, challenges such as vandalism of power infrastructure pose a significant threat to Nigeria’s electrification efforts.

“Transmission towers, pipelines, and distribution equipment have been targeted, disrupting supply and deterring potential investors,” he added.

The minister, according to a statement issued by the ministry on Thursday, January 30, 2025, stressed that protecting power assets is crucial to ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply and sustaining progress.

He added: “The government is intensifying efforts to curb vandalism through enhanced security, stricter penalties, and improved surveillance technologies.

“Achieving Nigeria’s electrification targets requires significant investment, and the government is prioritising private sector participation to unlock additional resources.”

The Star