In a renewed push to stabilise and expand Nigeria's energy supply, the Federal Government has announced major initiatives aimed at boosting electricity generation and distribution in the northern region.
Speaking at a two-day retreat hosted by the Senate Committee on Power, Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu outlined a multi-pronged strategy involving key infrastructure projects and private sector collaboration to tackle persistent power deficits in the region.
Adelabu revealed that the government plans to accelerate the development of the Makurdi Hydropower Project, which has a capacity of 1,000 megawatts, describing it as a game-changer for the region's energy outlook.
"We're working to bring the Makurdi hydropower project to life. At 1,000 MW, it's one of the largest in the pipeline and a cornerstone of our northern power strategy," he said.
In addition, the long-abandoned Kaduna Thermal Plant, which is 87% complete and capable of generating 215 megawatts, is set for revitalisation. "We're taking concrete steps to reactivate the Kaduna plant, which has remained dormant for over five years," Adelabu added.
He also disclosed that the Katsina Wind Farm, with an installed capacity of 10 megawatts, may soon be revived through a public-private partnership. "The state government has expressed interest in taking over the facility alongside private investors. We've commissioned a fresh feasibility study as part of plans to concession the project," he noted.
In a related development, the minister announced the imminent delivery of 200,000 prepaid meters, as part of efforts to bridge Nigeria's estimated seven million meter deficit—a critical issue he said contributes to revenue leakages and public distrust in the electricity sector.
He emphasised that the government's newly launched ₦700 billion Presidential Metering Initiative, along with a World Bank-supported program, aims to roll out 4.3 million meters by the end of the year.
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"So far, 75,000 meters were deployed in April, and another 200,000 units are expected this May. This is a vital step toward fair billing, cost recovery, and improved service delivery," he said.
The minister also highlighted broader reforms designed to modernise grid infrastructure and attract private sector investment. Key among them is a plan to regionalise the transmission network, reducing the risk of nationwide grid failures by decentralising operations.
Adelabu noted that better infrastructure in Lagos has led to higher remittance rates from the region's two power distribution companies, contrasting with the performance of northern Discos, which face significant operational and infrastructure deficits.
"This disparity highlights the urgent need for targeted infrastructure investment in the North. Our aim is a more balanced and resilient national power grid," he said.
