The Federal Government announced on Sunday that electricity generation improved from 3,951 MW to 4,300 MW between March 28 and April 10.
Mr. Bolaji Tunji, Special Adviser to the Minister of Power on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, said in a statement from Abuja that the gradual rise aligns with the assurance given by the Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, at the Power Sector Working Group, where he pledged improvements within two weeks.
Tunji explained that the increase mirrors a steady rise in gas supply to thermal power plants, which climbed from approximately 605 million standard cubic feet (mmscfd) to over 704 mmscfd during the same period.
He added that mechanical availability remained stable and even improved, peaking at over 7,796 MW in early April, while operational availability rose from about 4,208 MW to over 4,694 MW, indicating better efficiency in converting gas to electricity.
“In spite of minor fluctuations on some days, the overall trend points to a gradual recovery in the power sector, driven by improved gas supply and better coordination among stakeholders,” Tunji said.
He highlighted the strong link between gas availability and generation output, stressing the importance of sustained interventions in the gas-to-power value chain, given Nigeria’s reliance on thermal power.
“To consolidate these gains, the minister recently inaugurated a Gas-to-Power Monitoring Committee to ensure improved coordination, real-time monitoring, and consistent gas supply to generating companies. The committee will address bottlenecks, enhance synergy between gas producers and power companies, and ensure a more stable electricity supply nationwide,” he added.
Tunji said the minister remains committed to not just maintaining but significantly improving these gains in the coming weeks. “We are not there yet, but we will continue to ensure measurable improvements,” he said.
He also noted that the minister urged the new management of the Nigeria Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) to focus on boosting its internally generated revenue (IGR).
During a visit to the minister’s office, the newly appointed Managing Director of NEMSA, Mr. Olusegun Adesayo, and Board Chairman Ikechi Nwosu were tasked with reducing reliance on federal appropriations and expanding meter testing centers across the country.
Expressing confidence in the new leadership, Adelabu said, “I have no doubt about your ability. With your appointment by the president, you will do well, and you have my full cooperation.”
Addressing the shortage of meter installers, the minister called for collaboration between NEMSA and the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN) to train more personnel and accelerate efforts to bridge the meter gap nationwide. He also emphasized the need for meter testing stations in each geopolitical zone.
Finally, Adelabu urged Adesayo to conduct a comprehensive diagnosis of NEMSA to identify challenges and prioritize solutions. The Managing Director confirmed plans to engage other agencies and seek necessary support from the ministry to fulfill NEMSA’s responsibilities.
