FG Targets Zero Grid Collapse, Plans 10 Million Prepaid Meters by 2030
The Federal Government has unveiled plans to eliminate grid collapses in the power sector over the long term while focusing on reducing their frequency in the short term.
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, disclosed this during a budget defense session before the Senate Committee on Power in Abuja. He emphasized the government’s goal to achieve a 24-hour power restoration timeline in the event of grid disruptions.
“We are proud to say that we almost met all our targets for 2024 with the meagre budget that was approved for 2024, and our hope is that 2025 will be a better year for us. We will address issues such as gas supply, pipeline vandalization, and dilapidated transmission infrastructure,” Adelabu said.
While acknowledging the possibility of partial or full collapses, Adelabu noted that efforts are ongoing to minimize their occurrence and ensure swift restoration. “The focus of the Presidential Power Initiative in 2025 is to ensure the grid does not collapse as frequently as it did in 2024,” he added.
Adelabu also highlighted a 30% improvement in power generation in 2024 and announced a target to acquire 10 million prepaid electricity meters over the next five years to bridge the shortfall.
However, he expressed concern over funding challenges, stating, “The power sector is an expensive, fund-intensive sector. Our 2024 budget will barely be sufficient to establish two substations, given that 90% of power sector items are imported.”
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Adelabu urged the Senate to intervene through its power of appropriation, noting that delays in payments to generation companies (GenCos) were affecting their operations.
“So far, we owe the GenCos about N1.3 trillion. While we paid about N200 billion a few months back, no further payments have been made. This affects their ability to pay gas suppliers, service equipment, and meet staff obligations,” he explained.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to stabilizing the power sector, ensuring reliable electricity for Nigerians, and achieving the objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
