The Federal Government of Nigeria is aiming to generate nearly $1 billion (around N1.49 trillion) annually by exporting electricity to 15 West African countries under the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) starting June 2026.
The revenue projection is based on the country’s ability to export 600 megawatts of power at prevailing regional tariffs, following a successful grid synchronisation test conducted earlier this month. The exercise connected Nigeria’s national grid with the wider West African Power Pool for four hours on November 8, demonstrating that electricity could flow seamlessly across borders at a stable frequency.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Minister of Power Chief Adebayo Adelabu described the test as a historic milestone that positions Nigeria as a regional energy hub. He emphasized that full participation in the West African power market could begin once permanent synchronisation is achieved, with a second 48-hour test planned in the coming months.
Officials highlighted that Nigeria currently offers the cheapest electricity tariffs in the region, averaging about $0.07 per kilowatt-hour, significantly lower than the $0.19/kWh regional average. At full export capacity, this could translate to roughly $998.6 million in yearly earnings.
The government assured domestic consumers that power exports will not affect local supply. Adelabu added that ongoing transmission upgrades and expansion projects, including the North-Core line and key substations, will further strengthen the national grid and support reliable electricity delivery to homes and industries.
Nigerian power generators have also made significant operational improvements, with 60% now compliant with free governor control (FGC), a system that automatically stabilizes the grid during sudden changes in demand or generator outages. Officials expect full compliance in the near future, which will further enhance grid reliability and investor confidence in the electricity market.
With a transmission wheeling capacity of 8,500 MW and existing generation peaks around 5,800 MW, Nigeria is well-positioned to meet regional electricity demand and expand its role as a power exporter across West Africa.
