The Federal Government has has commenced discussions with electricity distribution companies on plans to establish special Energy Zones that could provide stable 24-hour electricity to homes, businesses and industries in major demand centres across Nigeria.
The proposed zones will cover key commercial and industrial corridors, including the Lagos axis, Abuja-Kaduna-Kano corridor and Enugu-Port Harcourt corridor.
The Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, announced the development via his X handle following a meeting with executives of selected electricity distribution companies and other energy stakeholders on improving power supply across the targeted areas.
In a statement, the minister’s media aide, Adeola Adelabu, said the initiative seeks to ensure that electricity generated and transmitted through the national grid reaches consumers more reliably, especially in areas with significant commercial and industrial activities.
The statement quoted Tegbe as saying,
“The constraint on the sector is not limited to generation and transmission but includes how much power is taken up and delivered at the distribution end.”
He said the proposed Energy Zones would help address distribution challenges, unlock additional commercial and industrial demand and improve the revenue and collection performance of electricity distribution companies.
The government also expects improved electricity supply in the targeted areas to support manufacturing, strengthen business operations and boost economic activity.
Tegbe reaffirmed the Federal Government’s plan to expand electricity infrastructure in high-demand areas, stressing that supply capacity must increase alongside the needs of Nigeria’s growing economy.
The government has also identified the Lagos, Enugu-Port Harcourt and Abuja-Kaduna-Kano corridors for infrastructure interventions aimed at improving the utilisation of available generation and transmission capacity.
The meeting was attended by representatives of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company, Ikeja Electric, Eko Power, Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company and Sahara Energy Group.
However, the government has yet to disclose when the Energy Zones will become operational, the specific electricity capacity targeted or the infrastructure investment required to achieve round-the-clock supply.
The proposal comes amid persistent concerns over unreliable electricity supply and challenges in delivering available power to consumers across the country.
By Musekir Faisat Omolara
