President Tinubu Reaffirms Support for Power Initiative
President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s strong support for the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), emphasizing its importance in enhancing electricity supply throughout Nigeria. This commitment was highlighted during a meeting with a delegation from Siemens Energy at the State House on Monday.
Tinubu stressed that improving power infrastructure is essential to Nigeria’s economic recovery and development, particularly in key sectors such as industry, education, and healthcare. “We are taking power very seriously,” he stated, as reported by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.
Despite the progress made so far, the President acknowledged that the PPI, which began in 2021, needs to accelerate. “There is no industrial growth or economic development without power. We appreciate the support and commitment of the German government and Siemens. The progress made so far is notable, but we must move faster.”
Expanding Transformer Substations
In addition to urging faster progress, Tinubu directed that some major transformer substations under the initiative be expanded from two to three phases. This step aims to strengthen the national grid and ensure more reliable electricity distribution across the country.
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, provided an update on the milestones achieved under the PPI. He noted that reforms and the signing of the Electricity Act 2023 have already attracted over $22 billion in fresh investments and activated state-level electricity markets.
Adelabu also mentioned that under the pilot phase, Siemens delivered mobile substations and transformers that have added 984 MW of transmission capacity nationwide. Civil works for Phase One upgrades in several locations, including Abeokuta, Offa, Ibadan (Ayede), Sokoto, and Onitsha, are set to begin. Two substations are expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
Siemens Energy’s Role in the Initiative
Dietmar Siersdorfer, Managing Director of Siemens Energy for the Middle East and Africa, emphasized the potential of the PPI to create jobs, foster technology transfer, and position Nigeria as a regional power hub. He expressed confidence in the project’s ability to drive sustainable development and improve energy access.
Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, highlighted that stable power will enhance the ease of doing business and support employment growth. His remarks underscored the critical link between reliable electricity and economic prosperity.
Germany’s Commitment to Partnership
Germany’s representative at the meeting, Johannes Lehne, pledged continued cooperation with Nigeria. This partnership reflects the shared vision of advancing energy infrastructure and fostering economic development through collaborative efforts.
Key Points of the Meeting
- President Tinubu reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to the PPI.
- The initiative aims to boost electricity supply and support economic growth.
- Siemens Energy has contributed significantly to the project through mobile substations and transformers.
- The expansion of transformer substations is a priority to strengthen the national grid.
- The Electricity Act 2023 has attracted substantial investments and activated state-level electricity markets.
- Siemens Energy sees the PPI as a catalyst for job creation and technological advancement.
- Germany remains committed to supporting Nigeria’s energy development goals.