Nigeria’s power supply capacity surged by 10.92% in the first quarter of 2025, driven by improved productivity from both thermal and hydroelectric plants, according to the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).
Total electricity generation during the quarter reached 10,304.47 GWh, up from 9,289.95 GWh in Q4 2024.
Grid efficiency also improved, with the average hourly power output rising by 13.39%, from 4,207.41 MWh/h to 4,770.59 MWh/h—an increase of 563.18 MWh/h.
The NERC report stated: “The hourly generation and the total generation increased by +13.39% and +10.92%, respectively, in 2025/Q1 compared to 2024/Q4… The increase in quarterly generation is attributable to the increase in the cumulative available generation capacity of the grid-connected plants.”
A total of 19 power plants recorded an uptick in electricity output, with thermal stations being the primary contributors. Among the 23 grid-connected thermal plants, 16 showed increased generation rates.
Top performers included:
Delta_1 (+157.58 MWh/h)
Geregu_2 (+71.95 MWh/h)
Egbin_1 (+68.20 MWh/h)
Afam_2 (+68.03 MWh/h)
While hydro plants had a more modest impact, they still posted a combined 4% increase. Zungeru_1 led with a 23.55% rise, followed by Shiroro_1 and Kainji_1, which improved by 12.21% and 4.80%, respectively.
The growth signals tangible progress in efforts to stabilise power supply, enhance maintenance routines, and optimise dispatch coordination. However, persistent issues—such as fuel supply shortages, equipment reliability, and high operating costs—continue to hinder consistent power delivery.
