Auditing Tinubu’s 20-hour power supply target

The Federal Government’s ambitious plan to deliver a 20-hour power supply to urban areas and industrial hubs by 2027 has ignited hope among Nigerians, despite a history of unfulfilled promises in the power sector.

For many, this represents a crucial turning point, as the Bola Tinubu administration seeks to address one of Nigeria’s most persistent challenges. While the feasibility of this target rests on overcoming deep-seated structural and operational issues in the power sector, CSR REPORTERS reports it also opens opportunities for corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability initiatives to play a transformative role in achieving energy security.

The urgency of this plan is underscored by Nigeria’s energy realities. The country’s current electricity generation capacity of 4,395.77MW pales in comparison to peers like Egypt and South Africa, both of which generate over 58,000MW. With a national demand of 20,000MW and available supply often hovering between 4,000MW and 5,000MW, the country’s economic losses due to unreliable power are staggering, estimated at $29 billion annually by the World Bank. This underperformance stems from chronic weaknesses across the generation, transmission, and distribution subsectors, compounded by outdated infrastructure and inefficiencies in revenue collection by Distribution Companies (DisCos). These challenges make the 20-hour power supply target appear daunting but not impossible, especially with strategic partnerships.

CSR offers a powerful avenue for private companies to complement government efforts, fostering a shared commitment to addressing Nigeria’s energy crisis. Corporations can take an active role in supporting decentralised power initiatives, leveraging the New Electricity Act 2023, which empowers state governments and private entities to generate and distribute electricity independently. By investing in localised energy solutions such as solar mini-grids, businesses can help bridge the gap in underserved areas while contributing to long-term sustainability goals. This aligns with global trends where CSR initiatives are increasingly focused on delivering environmental, social, and governance (ESG) value.

One potential area for CSR engagement is the enhancement of renewable energy adoption. With Nigeria’s vast solar potential and the growing affordability of photovoltaic technology, companies can establish solar farms or rooftop solar projects to supply power directly to industrial hubs or residential clusters. This not only alleviates the pressure on the national grid but also positions businesses as pioneers in sustainable energy transitions. Such projects could be accompanied by community empowerment programs, including training for locals in solar panel installation and maintenance, thereby creating jobs and fostering skills development.

Similarly, CSR initiatives can target capacity-building within the power sector itself. Given the Transmission Company of Nigeria’s (TCN) struggles with aged equipment and limited capacity, private companies could fund the upgrading of transmission infrastructure in key economic zones. These investments could be structured as public-private partnerships, ensuring mutual benefits for businesses and the communities they serve. Additionally, DisCos, often constrained by financial debts and operational inefficiencies, could collaborate with private entities to enhance their distribution capabilities through better metering systems and customer service delivery.

Sustainability must remain a guiding principle in these efforts. Addressing Nigeria’s energy deficit should not come at the expense of environmental degradation or resource depletion. Corporations engaging in power projects should prioritise clean energy technologies and adhere to global best practices in environmental management. For instance, gas-powered plants, while essential in the short term, should incorporate carbon capture technologies to mitigate emissions. Furthermore, investments in energy efficiency, such as retrofitting public buildings with energy-saving appliances, can contribute significantly to reducing overall demand on the grid.

Beyond infrastructure and technology, there is a critical need to foster public awareness and advocacy around energy conservation. CSR campaigns can play a vital role here, encouraging individuals and businesses to adopt practices that reduce energy wastage. Educational programs, workshops, and digital campaigns aimed at promoting energy efficiency can help change consumption patterns while reinforcing the value of sustainable power solutions.

At the sub-national level, states must seize the opportunities presented by the New Electricity Act 2023. Many have already established their regulatory commissions, but more needs to be done to operationalise these frameworks effectively. Private sector actors can support state governments by sharing technical expertise and co-developing power projects tailored to regional needs. For example, rural electrification programs could focus on agricultural communities, enabling farmers to power irrigation systems and processing facilities, thereby boosting productivity and income levels.

Achieving the Federal Government’s 20-hour power supply target requires a collaborative approach that integrates public policy, private sector innovation, and community engagement. While the challenges are significant, they are not insurmountable. Through strategic CSR investments and a commitment to sustainability, corporations can become key drivers of Nigeria’s energy transformation. By aligning their business objectives with the nation’s energy goals, they can not only deliver tangible social and environmental benefits but also enhance their reputations as catalysts for progress.

Ultimately, this moment demands bold action and collective responsibility. The Federal Government must provide a conducive regulatory environment and enforce accountability within the power sector. In parallel, businesses must embrace their role as partners in development, demonstrating that profitability and purpose can coexist. Together, these efforts can illuminate a pathway toward a brighter and more sustainable future for Nigeria, where reliable power supply becomes the norm rather than the exception.