The Federal Government has expressed optimism that improved management of the national power grid by the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) could boost electricity supply to 8,000 megawatts within the next 12 to 18 months. Speaking at a leadership retreat in Abuja, the Director General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Mr. Ayodeji Gbeleyi, noted that while the country’s installed capacity exceeds 14,000MW, actual generation has remained around 5,500MW.

Gbeleyi emphasized that with more efficient grid management and increased investment in transmission and distribution infrastructure, significant improvements in power supply are achievable. He mentioned that the federal government has secured approximately $500 million from the World Bank to upgrade the distribution infrastructure, which includes providing 3.2 million meters to Nigerians.

Chairman of the NISO Board, Dr. Adesegun Akin-Olugbade, highlighted that NISO’s independence is crucial for delivering improved services. The Managing Director/CEO of NISO, Engr. Abdu Bello, expressed confidence that the target is attainable if focus and investment from the private sector are prioritized.

Overall, the government aims to enhance the efficiency of the power sector and ensure that Nigerians benefit from improved electricity supply in the near future.