Bayo Onanuga, a spokesperson for the presidency, has challenged Peter Obi’s recent campaign promise to add 10,000 megawatts to Nigeria’s power grid within four years. Onanuga argues that the former governor fails to grasp the reality of the nation’s current infrastructure, noting that Nigeria’s installed generation capacity already stands at approximately 13,500 megawatts.
During an appearance on Arise Television, Onanuga explained that the core issue is not a lack of generation capacity but rather systemic failures. These include chronic gas shortages, over four trillion naira in legacy debts owed to gas suppliers, and a failing national grid. He pointed out that the current administration is actively working to settle these historical debts to stabilize the sector.
Highlighting the administration’s progress, Onanuga referenced the Electricity Act signed by President Bola Tinubu. This legislation allows individual states to participate in power generation, transmission, and distribution, aiming to foster a more competitive market. Furthermore, he noted that power generation levels have risen since May 2023.
Onanuga also highlighted the need to modernize the antiquated grid and mentioned the establishment of the Grid Asset Management Company Limited (GAMCO) to revitalize non-functional power facilities. While the government maintains its reforms are gaining traction, the feasibility of these solutions remains a point of contention among critics who have yet to observe tangible improvements in daily electricity supply.
