Prof. Bart Nnaji: Nigeria’s Power Hinges on Strategic Policy Execution

Prof. Barth Nnaji, founder and chairman of Geometric Power Limited, has called for the effective implementation of Nigeria’s National Integrated Power Policy to transform the nation’s energy sector. In an Arise TV interview on Friday, the former Minister of Power emphasized that the policy’s success relies on strategic execution and robust investment in generation, transmission, and distribution.

Nnaji expressed cautious optimism about the policy but stressed that Nigeria’s current power capacity is inadequate. “Policies are good, but implementation is what matters,” he said, urging an aggressive increase in power availability. He highlighted the need for upgraded transmission infrastructure and proposed smaller, more efficient distribution companies (DisCos) to enhance reliability and attract investment.

On renewable energy, Nnaji cautioned against banning solar panel imports due to Nigeria’s limited local production capacity. “We’re in a transition period,” he noted, advocating for leveraging natural gas while scaling up solar infrastructure gradually. He warned that abrupt import bans could hinder immediate power solutions.

Nnaji also urged the federal government to reinstate investor guarantee instruments to boost power sector financing, doubting state governments’ ability to provide similar assurances. “We need 100,000 megawatts of available power,” he stressed, pointing out the limitations of current transmission infrastructure.

In conclusion, Nnaji emphasized collaboration between government and private investors to achieve Nigeria’s power goals through sustainable policy execution. His pragmatic vision, blending expertise and commitment, positions him as a key advocate for a brighter, electrified Nigeria.