FG urged to attract UAE funds for power grid

Energy experts have urged Nigeria's Federal Government to secure funding from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to bolster the country's power grid and electricity infrastructure. This recommendation came after Nigeria's Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, participated in the Middle East Energy 2026 conference in Dubai. Tegbe emphasized Nigeria's commitment to developing infrastructure to enhance energy security.

The UAE has allocated significant funding, around $71.32 billion, to Sub-Saharan Africa between 2021 and 2025, with a focus on renewable energy, infrastructure, and digital innovation. The UAE's Minister of State for Energy and Infrastructure, Saeed bin Mubarak Al Hajeri, disclosed that the country committed over $70 billion to renewable and green energy projects across the continent through initiatives like Masdar's $10 billion program and the Etihad 7 platform.

Reacting to this development, Uket Obonga, the National Secretary of the Network for Electricity Consumers Advocacy of Nigeria, suggested that Nigeria should seek to attract a portion of these funds, particularly for enhancing its electricity infrastructure. Obonga estimated that Nigeria could potentially receive about 10% of the investment, which amounts to approximately $7 billion. If this funding is properly deployed, it could substantially improve Nigeria's electricity infrastructure.

Obonga emphasized the need for the Federal Government and the Minister of Power to clearly communicate their plans and the intended use of any funds attracted from the UAE. He also advised the government to ensure transparency regarding the allocation and utilization of these funds.