Nigeria is set to earn nearly $1 billion (about N1.49 trillion) annually from electricity exports to 15 West African countries under the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) sub-region, starting June 2026. The Federal Government’s projection is based on Nigeria’s full 600-megawatt export capacity and prevailing regional tariffs, positioning the country as a key power hub in the region.
The announcement follows a landmark grid synchronisation exercise conducted on November 8, 2025, when Nigeria successfully connected its national electricity grid with those of 15 West African countries for four uninterrupted hours. Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, described the exercise as a historic milestone that demonstrates West Africa’s potential to operate as a unified power bloc with seamless electricity flow across borders.
Officials explained that permanent grid synchronisation is planned for June 2026, with a 48-hour test run scheduled once discussions with regional operators conclude. Nigeria currently allocates 600MW for bilateral power trade, and with the sub-region’s prevailing tariff of $0.19 per kilowatt-hour, full export could yield nearly $1 billion in annual revenue. The government assured that domestic electricity supply will not be compromised by these exports.
Beyond revenue, grid synchronisation is expected to strengthen the domestic power system. By enhancing transmission capacity to 8,500MW and implementing free governor control across 60% of generating plants, Nigerian operators can now respond automatically to frequency disturbances. These upgrades promise improved grid stability, reliable electricity for homes and industries, and confidence for investors in Nigeria’s power sector.
Minister Adelabu emphasized that synchronisation benefits Nigerians directly, enabling better performance of essential services like hospitals, water supply, transport, and digital infrastructure. As transmission projects such as the North-Core line and Ajegunle 330 kV Substation are completed, the country is poised to leverage its regional energy role while providing more stable power nationwide.
source: punch