The Federal Government has unveiled the National Integrated Electricity Policy (NIEP) and Integrated Resource Plan (NIRP) as part of efforts to accelerate Nigeria’s energy transition goals.
The policies were developed by the Ministry of Power in collaboration with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the UK Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility (UKNIAF).
Speaking at the public presentation and unveiling of the NIEP and NIRP in Abuja, the Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, stated that the NIEP would serve as a guiding framework for Nigeria’s power sector.
He explained that the NIEP would ensure that the country’s pursuit of universal electrification was pragmatic, evidence-based, and aligned with its energy transition goals.
“Today’s occasion is a testament to our unwavering commitment to shaping a power sector that is inclusive, sustainable, and driven by strategic planning. Complementing this is the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), a strategic roadmap that prioritises least-cost electrification and optimal energy resource utilisation.
“Together, the NIEP and IRP present a unique opportunity to transform Nigeria’s power sector through a data-driven and evidence-based approach,” he said.
The Minister noted that beyond strengthening the sector, the NIEP and IRP frameworks would have significant economic benefits, improving power supply reliability for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large industries, while reducing operational disruptions caused by electricity shortages.
He further highlighted that these policies would stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and drive local and regional development.
“This reaffirms our commitment to delivering a more reliable, sustainable, and inclusive energy future for all Nigerians. It also aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which recognises that energy is not just a commodity but the backbone of economic growth and job creation,” he stated.
Adelabu attributed recent achievements in the power sector to the president’s unwavering support and commitment.
He listed key milestones recorded in 2024, including the development of the NIEP, leveraging over $1 billion in investments, and the commencement of the transition to full commercialisation of the power sector.
“Additionally, we have increased power generation from 4,200 megawatts (MW) in 2023 to an average of 5,300MW in 2024,” he added.
According to him, Nigeria’s power sector offers vast opportunities, including bridging transmission and distribution gaps, developing hydropower resources, and integrating large-scale renewable energy into the national grid.
He emphasised the importance of private sector involvement, stating, “We recognise the critical role of private capital, innovation, and expertise in transforming our electricity landscape, and we are committed to fostering an enabling environment for sustainable investment.”
The Minister expressed gratitude to the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), UKNIAF, and other development partners for their valuable contributions in shaping Nigeria’s energy future.
“Your partnership has been instrumental in helping us develop the robust policy and planning frameworks that will shape Nigeria’s energy landscape for years to come,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Ms Sally Woolhouse, Head of Economic Development at the FCDO Nigeria, reaffirmed the strong bilateral ties between the UK and Nigeria.
She stated that the UK would continue to support the development of world-class infrastructure in Nigeria to foster sustainable economic growth and build mutually beneficial strategic partnerships between both nations.
“Today’s event demonstrates the commitment of both the UK and Nigerian governments to addressing Nigeria’s energy sector challenges. On policy, it highlights Nigeria’s dedication to technology-driven, evidence-based, and sustainable energy planning within a framework of policy certainty,” she said.