- Nigeria must close a £27.4bn funding gap to achieve universal electricity access by 2030.
- The conference highlights public-private partnerships as a key route to mobilising capital and innovation.
Nigeria’s electricity funding gap has taken centre stage at this year’s Nigeria Energy 2025 conference in Lagos. The three-day summit aims to address the £27.4bn shortfall required to achieve universal electricity access by 2030.
Held at the Landmark Event Centre, the event brings together government officials, regulators, investors, and innovators. Under the theme “Powering Nigeria Through Investment, Innovation and Partnership,” participants explore practical strategies to transform the nation’s energy future.
According to organisers, the 12th edition marks a significant turning point for Nigeria’s power industry. Consequently, progress now depends on policies and the ability to mobilise capital, technology, and collaboration. Once a trade exhibition, the forum has become a significant hub for policy dialogue and industry partnerships.
Exhibition Director Ade Yesufu explained that discussions will focus on overcoming barriers that have slowed Nigeria’s power reforms. Since the Electricity Act 2023 replaced the 2005 law, states have gained the authority to create independent electricity markets. As a result, new opportunities have emerged for private investment across regions.
However, despite the reform, Nigeria’s electricity funding gap remains wide. Financing challenges, regulatory overlaps, and ageing infrastructure limit consistent power supply. The conference, therefore, seeks to shift attention from broad policies to measurable outcomes that drive progress.
Meanwhile, today’s sessions open with a ministerial address by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, followed by a keynote speech from Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Lagos, already leading in state-level energy reform, will, in fact, share lessons on developing a functional electricity market.
In addition, one highlight, ‘PPP Power Play: Reshaping Nigeria’s Infrastructure Landscape,’ will examine how public-private partnerships can unlock much-needed capital and expertise. Another key session, ‘In Conversation with State Visionaries,’ features energy leaders from Lagos, Enugu, and Oyo. They will, therefore, discuss how local regulation can complement national frameworks and attract long-term investment.
Furthermore, sessions on energy efficiency, gas infrastructure, and clean cooking will explore how Nigeria can reduce waste while expanding access. Through these dialogues, organisers hope to build momentum for reforms supporting growth and sustainability.
By connecting over 150 decision-makers and investors, the event aims to convert innovative ideas into tangible projects. Ultimately, Nigeria Energy 2025 positions itself as the platform where policy, innovation, and investment converge to close Nigeria’s electricity funding gap.