Recent data from the International Trade Centre indicates that Nigeria has seen its electricity exports surge to a value of $112 million. The country is presently exporting electricity to its neighboring African nations, the Republic of Benin and Niger.
As of January 18, 2025, Nigeria’s electricity exports to Benin were worth $66 million, with a potential export value of $82 million, leaving an unrealized export potential of $16 million. Similarly, electricity exports to Niger stood at $46 million, with a potential of $51 million, resulting in an unrealized potential of $4.1 million.
The main products with export potential from Nigeria to Benin include electrical energy, Urea, and Bars & rods of iron/steel. There is a notable difference between the potential and actual exports, particularly in electrical energy, with an additional $4.1 million in exports yet to be realized.
The concerns surrounding Nigeria’s electricity supply remain prevalent despite the growth in the export sector. Chief Princewill Okorie of the Electricity Consumer Protection Advocacy Centre raised questions about the country’s focus, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the welfare of Nigerian consumers over export revenue.
Additionally, Mr. Kunle Olubiyo, President of the Nigeria Consumer Protection Network, highlighted the inadequacy of investments in renewable energy in Nigeria and the need to bridge the gap between the country’s power generation and global trends in clean energy.
While Nigeria’s electricity exports are on the rise, experts stress the challenges the country faces in ensuring sufficient power supply and advocate for increased investments in clean energy solutions to address these issues effectively.