In a bold move to solve Nigeria’s electricity challenges, the Federal Government has unveiled a strategic plan to generate 1,900 megawatts of solar energy across the 19 northern states. This comes as part of its broader ambition to boost electricity generation to 8,000MW by the end of President Bola Tinubu’s tenure in 2027.
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, made the announcement at the sixth edition of the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing in Abuja.
He revealed that each northern state would benefit from a modular solar power plant generating approximately 100MW. This approach is aimed at reducing over-dependence on the national grid and enhancing energy self-sufficiency.
He emphasized the importance of private sector involvement in expanding Nigeria’s electricity infrastructure. Companies like Sun Africa and Skipper Electric are already on board, with Sun Africa proposing to inject 1,000MW into the grid and Skipper Electric focusing on the northern solar projects.
Adelabu also shed light on the frequent power issues in the north, which have been worsened by vandalism and theft of critical infrastructure. He recalled the major blackout in 17 northern states last October due to attacks on power lines.
However, the government is making progress. Power generation has increased from 4,100MW in mid-2023 to a steady 5,800MW by early 2025.
The minister credited this success to President Tinubu’s support and affirmed that Nigeria’s energy output could realistically hit 8,000MW if the current momentum continues.
“Had previous administrations added just 1,000MW yearly since 1999, we’d be producing over 30,000MW today,” Adelabu pointed out.
He further highlighted the importance of regionalizing the national grid, which would prevent nationwide blackouts by isolating faults to specific regions. The new supergrid initiatives are already in motion to bring this vision to life.
Adelabu also noted that 150 million Nigerians now have access to electricity, although around 80 million still lack reliable power. “The issue is no longer access alone—it’s also about affordability and stability,” he said.
Another significant milestone is the revival of the long-abandoned 215MW Kaduna Power Plant, now 87% completed and scheduled to be operational by the end of 2025. The project had been dormant since 2018 until Adelabu secured the president’s approval for its revival.
With continued investment and reforms, the government hopes to transform Nigeria’s power sector, ensuring stable and sustainable electricity for millions.
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