Power experts have praised the Federal Government’s $2 billion investment in the new East-West Super Grid, which aims to strengthen electricity transmission and improve nationwide power supply.
The Minister of Power, Mr Joseph Tegbe, announced the investment during a television interview on TVC on Monday.
Tegbe stated that the project is part of the Federal Government’s efforts to address transmission challenges, improve grid stability, and meet the country’s growing electricity demand.
According to him, the proposed Super Grid will traverse Funtua, Gwagwalada, Ikot-Ekpene, Benin, Epe and Ilorin, with an additional transmission capacity of at least 19,000 megawatts.
Dr Yekeen Adeboye, President and Project Director of the Society of Energy Administrators (SEA) of Nigeria, described the investment as a welcome development.
He stated that the initiative would strengthen energy security and support socio-economic development.
Adeboye added that improved electricity transmission would boost productivity and create opportunities for small businesses, especially for young people.
He also noted that this initiative could help address youth restiveness and insecurity by creating employment opportunities.
Similarly, Mr Ademola Adegoke, a former staff member of Eko Power Ltd., described the investment in electricity transmission as commendable.
However, he stated that sustainable transformation of the power sector requires comprehensive investment across generation, transmission, and distribution.
Adegoke recommended that the government also prioritise metering, expand low-tension and high-tension distribution networks, and establish an effective regulatory framework to ensure compliance with industry standards.
He stated that addressing these critical areas, along with transmission investment, would improve electricity delivery and ensure a more stable power supply nationwide.
