Japan, through its international development agency, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has pledged $500 million to improve power supply in Nigeria, focusing on the Ogun and Lagos regions.
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, announced this significant investment during a courtesy visit from Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Friday.
In an official statement released by Bolaji Tunji, Special Adviser on Strategic Communication and Media Relations to the Minister, it was highlighted that the funds would primarily be directed towards enhancing transmission infrastructure along the Lagos-Ogun Industrial Corridor, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.
This initiative underscores Japan’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s economic growth and is expected to benefit key industrial zones in Agbara, Mowe, and Shagamu.
“This investment is poised to substantially improve power transmission capabilities, particularly within the Ogun industrial corridor,” said Minister Adelabu. He further emphasized that this initiative aligns with the goals of the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), which seeks to strengthen Nigeria’s power infrastructure nationwide.
Adelabu outlined that the project includes constructing new power transmission substations, upgrading existing facilities, and reinforcing high-voltage power lines to boost capacity and reliability.
In addition to the JICA-funded project, the Minister mentioned ongoing projects by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) aimed at further enhancing power supply in Ogun State. These efforts form part of a broader strategy to tackle Nigeria’s persistent power supply issues and support the country’s industrialization ambitions.
The Minister also urged Governor Abiodun to collaborate with the Ministry of Power in advocating for improvements to the gas pipeline infrastructure running through the state. He stressed the importance of increasing the pressure, quality, and quantity of gas supplies to power plants and industrial facilities within Ogun State, which is crucial for sustaining and enhancing industrial activities in the region.
Governor Abiodun, in his response, praised the Minister for the significant improvements in power supply across Nigeria. He commended Adelabu for the transformative changes in the power sector since assuming office, encouraging him to continue driving progress to further stimulate economic growth.
“I came to express my gratitude for the remarkable progress in the power sector. The visible improvements in power supply are commendable and crucial for our industrial base,” Abiodun said.
The Governor also requested continued focus on Ogun State’s power infrastructure, highlighting its critical role as an industrial hub in Nigeria. He noted that the Minister’s planned visit to Ogun State would provide an opportunity to engage with key industrial stakeholders, further enhancing cooperation between the state and federal government on power-related projects.
Governor Abiodun also mentioned the Minister’s previous visits to major industries and power plants within the state, including Momas Electricity Meters Manufacturing Company, Coleman Wires and Cables, and the Olorunsogo Power Plant.
The collaboration between Japan and Nigeria to bolster power infrastructure marks a significant step towards addressing the country’s energy challenges, with Ogun State set to benefit from these strategic investments.
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