Nigeria Joins Continental Effort to Connect 300 Million Africans to Electricity by 2030
The Federal Government has taken a decisive step toward addressing Nigeria’s energy crisis with the launch of a high-level stakeholder forum to implement the National Energy Compact under the ambitious “Mission 300” initiative. The forum, held today in Abuja, brings together key ministries, international development partners, and private sector leaders to accelerate progress toward universal energy access.
As one of 12 African nations selected for the first phase of Mission 300, Nigeria has committed to dramatic reforms in its energy sector. The initiative, backed by the World Bank, African Development Bank, and major global energy organizations, aims to connect 300 million people across the continent to electricity by 2030 while expanding access to clean cooking solutions.
Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu emphasized the transformative potential of the program, stating, “Mission 300 represents our best opportunity to finally solve Nigeria’s energy challenges. We are implementing concrete reforms to double our annual electricity access growth from 4% to 9% and significantly expand clean cooking access.”
The government has established a special Compact Delivery and Monitoring Unit to oversee five key strategic priorities: rehabilitating energy infrastructure, extending last-mile access to underserved communities, promoting clean cooking technologies, strengthening utility finances, and increasing private sector participation. These measures aim to create an attractive environment for the estimated $10 billion in annual investments needed to meet Nigeria’s energy goals.
African Development Bank energy director Wale Shonibare praised Nigeria’s leadership, noting, “The country’s clear targets and reform agenda demonstrate how political will can unlock investment. We’re mobilizing funding and technical support to help deliver reliable, affordable power to millions.”
The stakeholder forum marks a critical milestone following Nigeria’s commitment at the Dar es Salaam Energy Summit earlier this year. With over 85 million Nigerians still lacking electricity access, success of the Mission 300 program could prove transformative for economic development, healthcare, and education nationwide.
