Afam II Power Plant goes live, as Sahara Power, Crescendough commission 180MW project in Rivers
Africa’s largest private power firm, Sahara Power Group (SPG), in collaboration with Crescendough Nigeria Limited (CNL), has commissioned the 180MW Afam II Power Plant in Rivers State, delivering a major boost to Nigeria’s electricity supply and underlining the growing influence of private-sector partnerships in addressing the country’s energy challenges.
The plant, fully developed and delivered in just 16 months using predominantly Nigerian expertise, is now operational and feeding power into the national grid. It is expected to enhance electricity access for households, businesses and industries, while supporting broader economic growth.
The project, spearheaded by Sahara Power Group—part of the global energy and infrastructure conglomerate, Sahara Group—and CNL, has been described by government and industry stakeholders as a key step forward in Nigeria’s push for energy security and sustainable power delivery.
Speaking during the virtual commissioning of the plant, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described the project as a “landmark accomplishment born out of the enterprising Nigerian spirit”. He said its completion is proof of what can be achieved through unity, persistence, and renewed national optimism.
“This project shows our ability to confront and overcome challenges through collaboration and shared commitment,” said President Tinubu, who also praised the Rivers State Government for its foresight in supporting the initiative.
He commended Sahara Power Group, First Independent Power Limited, and Crescendough Nigeria Limited for their investment and technical input, describing the project as a transformation of vision into tangible impact.
“Nigeria appreciates your efforts. The 180MW now added to our national grid will stimulate development and bolster our economy,” the President said.
Reaffirming his administration’s focus on stable electricity, Tinubu added, “Let me make it clear that achieving a reliable power supply remains a core objective. We will uphold policies that protect investment and promote a conducive environment for doing business.”
Kola Adesina, Group Managing Director of Sahara Power Group, said the company had been at the forefront of energy and infrastructure development in Africa for nearly three decades. He said the Afam II project would trigger productivity, job creation and sustainable progress.
“This milestone represents more than 180 megawatts of new power. It symbolises meaningful impact, changed lives, and the privilege of responsibly bringing energy to communities,” Adesina said.
He noted that electricity is the foundation of modern economies and pledged Sahara Group’s continued commitment to strategic, long-term investments and partnerships aimed at securing uninterrupted power across Nigeria and Africa.
“Sahara Power is currently the largest power business in Nigeria, accounting for more than 20 percent of total generation through our operations at Egbin Power and First Independent Power Limited,” he said. “That equates to supplying electricity to over 50 million homes, businesses, and industries. But for us, this is just the beginning. Our vision is for a fully powered, globally competitive Nigeria.”
Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, Administrator of Rivers State, commended the pace and quality of the project’s delivery, calling it a reflection of President Tinubu’s dedication to promoting indigenous capacity and local solutions.
“To Sahara Group and your partners, congratulations. You have shown that Nigerian enterprise is not only alive but strong and capable. Your investment in this plant confirms your faith in our economy and in Rivers State as a hub for high-impact investment,” he said.
Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, also praised the development, calling it a milestone that reflects successful collaboration between public-sector reform and private-sector initiative.
“Sahara Energy’s commitment to Afam II is a shining example of what can be achieved when reforms are matched by bold investments,” Adelabu said.
Echoing this sentiment, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, pledged that his ministry would continue to work closely with the power ministry to resolve gas supply constraints and enhance energy sustainability.
Looking ahead, Adesina noted that Sahara Group is undertaking further expansion of Egbin Power, the largest privately operated thermal plant in sub-Saharan Africa, alongside upgrades to Ikeja Electric—the region’s largest distribution company—and innovative capacity-building at First Independent Power Limited.
He also pointed to planned investments in renewables and alternative energy as part of the group’s strategy to support environmental goals and broaden access to clean, sustainable power.
“We remain committed to energising Nigeria and Africa, responsibly and sustainably,” he said.
Adesina extended appreciation to the Presidency and the Federal Ministry of Power for their policy leadership, to the Rivers State Government for its foundational role in enabling the project, and to agencies including the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and Afam host communities for their support in bringing the project to life.