UKNIAF Supports Nigeria’s Power Sector Reform with Launch of National Electricity Policy

The United Kingdom Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility (UKNIAF) has played a pivotal role in the public unveiling of the Nigeria Integrated Electricity Policy (NIEP), marking a significant milestone for the nation’s power sector.

The event, held on Thursday in Abuja, was led by Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and saw the presentation of the NIEP, which is a product of collaboration among various stakeholders, including power sector professionals and international partners such as the African Development Bank (AfDB), World Bank, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), Tony Blair Institute (TBI), and UKNIAF.

The Federal Ministry of Power organized the event with backing from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) through UKNIAF. It attracted prominent figures, including Ministers, members of the Interministerial Power Sector Group, donor partners, and private sector executives, all unified in their commitment to advancing a sustainable and inclusive electricity sector in Nigeria.

A key highlight of the event was the presentation of the Nigeria Integrated Resource Plan (NIRP) 2024, the first-ever such plan developed by the Federal Government to guide electricity sector planning. The NIRP 2024 aims to optimize the country’s power generation, transmission, and distribution systems at the lowest possible cost, while addressing the energy development needs of sector stakeholders.

Since January 2022, the FCDO, through UKNIAF, has provided critical technical support to the Federal Ministry of Power and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) in developing the NIRP, employing a data-driven approach to tackle Nigeria’s power sector challenges.

“Today is a significant moment for our nation’s energy sector,” said Minister Adelabu in his opening speech. “The integration of the NIRP with the National Integrated Electricity Policy provides a solid foundation for transformative investments in generation, transmission, and distribution. This milestone will secure our energy future and create a favorable environment for both local and international private sector investment.”

Engr. Frank Edozie, Power Component Lead at UKNIAF, expressed pride in the project’s success, noting that UKNIAF’s support highlights their ongoing commitment to Nigeria’s power sector reforms and strengthens the country’s position as an attractive destination for sustainable energy investments.

The NIEP and NIRP include a strong legal and regulatory framework underpinned by the reforms of the Electricity Act 2023. The plan provides a blueprint for sustainable electrification, balancing supply-side resources with demand-side efficiency measures, and identifies investment opportunities throughout the energy value chain, with a particular focus on renewable energy technologies.

1. This initiative is poised to elevate Nigeria as a leading economy in Sub-Saharan Africa in terms of reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy. It is expected to attract substantial investments, foster innovation, and significantly improve electricity access for millions of Nigerians.