FG releases 98 of 300 containers of power equipment stranded for 20 years

The Federal Government has released 98 containers of power equipment that had been stranded at Nigerian ports for nearly two decades, according to a statement from the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe. The release, approved by the Nigeria Customs Service on President Bola Tinubu's directive, is expected to bolster the national electricity grid by expanding transmission networks, reducing strain on overloaded substations, and accelerating power infrastructure projects.

The Federal Ministry of Power described the development as a significant step towards addressing infrastructure constraints in the power sector, stating that the equipment was originally procured to achieve these goals.

The remaining over 200 containers are still awaiting release, but the government is working diligently to secure their clearance. Tegbe emphasized that engineers would inspect, test, and refurbish the equipment as needed before deploying it to locations where it is most needed, such as completing stalled installations and easing pressure on overloaded substations. The ministry noted that most of the equipment was found to be useful and viable after inspection.

President Tinubu's directive in August 2025 to expand ongoing power infrastructure projects under the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) has been a driving force behind this development. The president assured support for the implementation of the project in three phases, promising political and financial backing to complete the ongoing phases.

The release of the stranded equipment is expected to contribute to the broader efforts to enhance transmission capacity and resolve infrastructure challenges affecting electricity supply nationwide.