Nigeria’s electricity supply to the country’s eleven Distribution Companies (DisCos) has surged to 4,871 megawatts (MW), marking one of the highest levels recorded in 2025 and signaling gradual improvement in national power generation and distribution. The increase, industry experts say, reflects the combined effect of enhanced generation capacity, improved grid stability, and ongoing efforts by the federal government to reform the power sector for efficient energy delivery.
According to data released by the Nigerian Electricity System Operator (NESO), the grid recorded an average of 4,871MW supplied to the DisCos, compared to less than 4,000MW earlier in the year. The development indicates better performance by the generation companies (GenCos), supported by higher gas supply, fewer grid disruptions, and operational improvements across major power plants nationwide.
The report noted that the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has been instrumental in stabilizing the system through its ongoing maintenance projects and network upgrades. It revealed that the national grid has operated more consistently in recent weeks, with fewer system collapses and minimal technical losses during transmission.
Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, attributed the improvement to the government’s renewed focus on strengthening generation infrastructure, enhancing transmission capacity, and promoting collaboration between the public and private sectors. Speaking during an energy sector briefing in Abuja, Adelabu said the rise in electricity supply demonstrates progress in the government’s roadmap to achieve 6,000MW of stable supply by the end of 2025.
He explained that the increase was achieved through strategic interventions, including the rehabilitation of key generation plants, the resolution of gas supply constraints, and investments in alternative energy sources. “The current improvement in power supply reflects our commitment to addressing challenges across the value chain. We have made progress in stabilizing the grid, improving gas delivery to thermal plants, and encouraging states to develop independent power projects,” Adelabu stated.
The minister highlighted that the federal government, through the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), has continued to engage stakeholders on regulatory reforms aimed at boosting transparency, metering coverage, and tariff reviews that reflect market realities while protecting consumers.
He also reiterated that the decentralization of the electricity market — made possible by the 2023 Electricity Act — is already yielding results, as some states such as Lagos, Edo, and Kaduna have begun developing localized electricity frameworks to supplement the national grid. “We expect more states to establish their power agencies and contribute to the national energy mix,” Adelabu added.
Industry data showed that the boost in supply has benefited millions of households and businesses across the country, particularly in urban centers. Major DisCos such as Ikeja Electric, Eko Electricity Distribution Company, and Abuja Electricity Distribution Company have reported longer supply hours and improved voltage quality in several service areas.
The Managing Director of Ikeja Electric, Mrs. Folake Soetan, confirmed that her company has experienced increased energy allocation in recent weeks, allowing for better distribution efficiency and reduced outage complaints. “The improvement in supply has been noticeable across our coverage areas. We are ensuring that the energy received is distributed equitably and efficiently,” she said.
Similarly, the Chief Executive Officer of Abuja Electricity Distribution Company, Mr. Christopher Ezeafulukwe, noted that stable energy allocation has helped reduce dependency on diesel generators and enhanced service reliability for customers. “The recent increase in power supply shows that with proper coordination among GenCos, TCN, and DisCos, we can achieve steady progress in electricity delivery,” he added.
Experts, however, cautioned that the recent gains must be sustained through consistent investment and policy continuity. Energy analyst and Managing Partner of NextGen Power Advisory, Mr. Adetunji Osho, observed that while the 4,871MW supply level is commendable, it still falls short of the country’s demand, estimated at over 28,000MW. “The improvement is encouraging, but Nigeria still has a long way to go in closing the power deficit. Sustained reforms, investment in renewable energy, and modernization of the distribution network are key to lasting progress,” Osho said.
He also emphasized the importance of addressing metering gaps and energy theft, both of which continue to hinder revenue recovery across the sector. According to him, the success of the power sector reforms depends on financial viability and consumer accountability.
Meanwhile, the Transmission Company of Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to achieving a more stable and efficient grid system. In a statement, TCN’s General Manager for Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, said ongoing projects under the Presidential Power Initiative are expected to further boost transmission capacity to 10,000MW by 2026. “We are working closely with Siemens Energy and other partners to complete transmission upgrades that will enable the grid to evacuate more power from generating stations,” she said.
Mbah added that TCN has completed several transmission substations and power line projects in key locations such as Kano, Benin, and Port Harcourt, aimed at improving voltage stability and reducing energy losses.
On the generation front, operators of thermal plants such as Egbin, Azura-Edo, and Geregu have reported higher output levels, thanks to improved gas supply and maintenance schedules. Hydropower stations like Kainji, Jebba, and Shiroro have also contributed significantly due to favorable water levels.
As Nigeria continues to battle with its long-standing power challenges, the recent surge to 4,871MW offers cautious optimism for both consumers and investors. The government’s commitment to diversifying the energy mix — including solar, hydro, and gas — is expected to complement the improvements recorded in the national grid.
For millions of Nigerians who have endured years of erratic power supply, the recent progress serves as a glimmer of hope. If sustained, it could mark a turning point in the country’s decades-long struggle to achieve reliable, affordable, and accessible electricity for all.
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