Federal Government of Nigeria has finalised an agreement worth $328.81 million with the China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) aimed at enhancing the power supply in Nigeria.
The contract encompasses engineering, procurement, construction, and financing for the development of transmission lines as part of phase 1 of the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI).
During the signing ceremony held in Abuja on Wednesday, Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, highlighted CMEC’s role in executing critical aspects of the project.
This, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), includes the rehabilitation and construction of both 330 kilovolt (kV) and 132 kV transmission lines.
Adelabu also explained that the FGN Power Company, a specialized vehicle established by the federal government, will oversee the project’s implementation under the PPI framework.
He emphasised that the initiative is focused on improving grid efficiency and minimizing stranded capacity, and noted that it has been strategically organized into two priority batches for effective execution.
“Priority one includes seven brownfield and 10 greenfield lines, totaling 544 kilometers with a load capacity of 7,140 megawatts,” he said.
“These vital infrastructure projects will serve as the arteries to carry increased power generated through mid-stream transmission directly to homes, businesses, and industries powering our economy.
“This project is not an isolated effort. It is strategically designed to complement ongoing mid-stream transmission enhancements. Our vision is holistic—from generation to the last mile of distribution.
“By upgrading and expanding the transmission network, he said the country is directly addressing a key bottleneck in the power value chain.”
Adelabu noted that tackling the bottlenecks would result in improved electricity reliability and access for millions of Nigerians, thereby fostering economic growth, job creation, and improved quality of life.
“Today’s signing is a tangible demonstration of the federal government’s unwavering commitment, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, to deliver stable and reliable power to all Nigerians,” he said.
“We are determined to eliminate the obstacles that have hindered past progress and build a 21st-century-ready power sector.”
Also speaking at the event, Kenny Anuwe, managing director (MD) of FGN Power Company, emphasised the importance of expanding and upgrading transmission infrastructure to deliver generated power to required areas.
“At FGN Power Company, our mandate is clear: to deliver improved power supply to all Nigerians. A robust and reliable transmission network is the backbone of a stable power sector,” Anuwe said.
The MD described the partnership with CMEC as a strategic move to strengthen the backbone, ensuring that investments in power generation translate into tangible benefits for the Nigerian people.
