Mohammed Shosanya
The United States of America under the U.S Agency for International Development (USAID) has pledged to commit 75 million Dollars, (N115 billion) in order to support electricity reforms in Nigeria.
Speaking at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between USAID and the Ministry of Power in Abuja,Melissa Jones, USAID/Nigeria Mission Director, explained that the development would support electricity sector reforms, market transparency, and expanded access to sustainable, reliable, and affordable power for Nigerians.
The agency continued that the agreement “will facilitate the implementation of a ₦115.2 billion (approximately $75 million) U.S. government grant-funded technical assistance program for power sector development and reforms in Nigeria.”
“Currently, over 85 million Nigerians lack access to grid power, while many others face unreliable supply.
These challenges force many Nigerian families and businesses to rely on expensive, emission-intensive gasoline and diesel backup generators,” she emphasized.
The USAID Director maintained the U.S. government’s commitment to advancing electrification in Nigeria, adding “Today’s goal is to strengthen collaboration between USAID and the Federal Government of Nigeria and provide a framework for partnerships with other key actors, including state and local governments, electricity generation and distribution sectors, and the off-grid sector.”
Power Africa Coordinator Richard Nelson, attending the signing ceremony during his first official visit to Nigeria, noted, “Nigeria is at the core of Power Africa’s strategy.
“I look forward to elevating our partnership to advance Nigeria’s progress towards our shared goal of ensuring access to reliable, sustainable, affordable power for all.”
Speaking,the Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mahmuda Mamman, disclosed the partnership’s potential to transform the country’s power sector.
He stated, “This collaboration with USAID is a significant milestone towards achieving sustainable and reliable electricity supply for all Nigerians.
“Together, we will address long standing challenges, ensure transparency, enhance market liquidity, and accelerate our transition to clean energy solutions.”
He explained that the US agency’s efforts are captured under the North American country’s Power Africa Initiative, a U.S. government-led partnership that leverages public and private sector resources to double electricity access in sub-Saharan Africa.
He added that the initiative, which is reportedly new, aims to strengthen policy frameworks, enhance regulatory capacities, and encourage private sector participation, driving Nigeria towards its clean energy and net-zero carbon emissions targets.
