Nigeria’s power sector recorded a notable improvement in electricity generation, rising from 3,951 megawatts (MW) in March to approximately 4,300MW in early April, according to the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu.
The Minister attributed this upward trend primarily to a significant increase in gas supply to thermal power plants, which grew from about 605 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) to over 704 mmscfd within the same period.
Adelabu explained that the improved gas availability has been instrumental in stabilising generation output, reinforcing the critical role of the gas-to-power value chain in Nigeria’s electricity mix.
He noted that beyond the rise in average generation, overall system performance also improved, reflecting better coordination among stakeholders in the sector.
Providing further insight into system performance, the Minister disclosed that mechanical availability remained stable and peaked at over 7,796MW in early April.
Similarly, operational availability increased from about 4,208MW to over 4,694MW, indicating enhanced efficiency in converting available gas into electricity.
“Despite minor fluctuations recorded on some days, the overall trajectory points to a gradual recovery in the power sector, driven largely by improved gas supply and stronger coordination among critical stakeholders,” Adelabu stated.
Reinforcing the importance of sustained progress, the Minister emphasised that the strong correlation between gas supply and electricity generation underscores the need for continuous investment and coordination in the value chain.
To this end, he announced the inauguration of a Gas-to-Power Monitoring Committee tasked with:
- Ensuring real-time monitoring of gas supply
- Addressing bottlenecks in gas delivery
- Enhancing collaboration between gas producers and power generation companie
- Supporting stable and reliable electricity supply nationwide
- Commitment to Sustained Improvements
Adelabu reaffirmed the government’s resolve to consolidate the gains recorded so far, noting that ongoing reforms and targeted interventions are expected to deliver further improvements in generation and supply.
“We are not there yet, but we will continue to ensure measurable improvements,” he said.
During a separate engagement with the leadership of the Nigeria Electricity Management Services Agency, the Minister called for stronger institutional performance and financial sustainability.
He urged the agency’s Managing Director, Olusegun Adesayo, and Board Chairman, Ikechi Nwosu, to:
- Improve Internally Generated Revenue (IGR)
- Reduce dependence on government funding for operations
- Expand meter testing infrastructure nationwide
Adelabu also directed that meter testing centres be established across all geopolitical zones to enhance regulatory oversight and service delivery.
Highlighting the shortage of skilled meter installers, the Minister reiterated the need for collaboration between the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria and NEMSA.
“We need to ensure more installers are trained to accelerate the government’s plan to bridge the meter gap in the country,” he said.
He further instructed the agency to undertake a comprehensive diagnostic review to identify operational challenges and prioritise reforms.
Expressing confidence in the new NEMSA management, Adelabu assured them of full support, noting that their appointments align with the administration’s broader goal of strengthening the power sector.
The improvement from 3,951MW to 4,300MW signals a gradual but meaningful recovery in Nigeria’s electricity sector, driven by enhanced gas supply, improved operational efficiency, and stronger institutional coordination.
While challenges persist, the government maintains that sustained reforms and strategic interventions will continue to stabilise and strengthen electricity supply across the country.
