- Professor urges revival of coal-fired plants to tackle Nigeria’s power shortage.
- Global data shows coal remains a major electricity source despite clean energy growth.
Nigeria coal power has returned to national debate after Prof G. Z. Ugwu of ESUT urged the Federal Government to revive coal-fired generation. He delivered this position during the university’s 54th inaugural lecture. He argued that Nigeria must explore every reliable option to solve its persistent electricity crisis. The professor stressed that several advanced nations still depend on coal for stable power. He also noted that clean energy technologies are not entirely clean.
He insisted that Nigeria coal power remains a viable path for boosting electricity supply. He explained that coal could help the country reach the estimated 40,000 megawatts required for stable national power. He criticized the country’s heavy reliance on gas-fired generation. He added that nearly 70 per cent of Nigerians still lack adequate electricity access, despite years of reform.
Ugwu stated that wider deployment of coal-fired plants could reduce electricity tariffs. He argued that increased supply often lowers market pressure. He also highlighted that high-grade bituminous coal can effectively serve as pulverised fuel for power generation. He reminded the audience that coal supported global economic growth for decades. He said it also played a major role in infrastructure expansion and poverty reduction worldwide.
During the lecture, he presented global statistics to support his argument. He noted that coal reserves remain abundant across the world. China and the United States hold the largest volumes. He added that coal contributed 34.32 per cent of global electricity in 2024. He pointed out that India generates 74.6 per cent of its power from coal, China 53.18 per cent, Japan 31.87 per cent, and the United States 14.88 per cent. Nigeria contributes zero per cent.
To close his presentation, Ugwu urged the government to revitalise the coal mining industry. He recommended the construction of coal-fired plants in regions with proven deposits. He maintained that such investment would expand electricity output and support national development.