In Nigeria, between May 2025 and April 2026, electricity consumption was primarily reliant on fossil fuels, with fossil and gas each contributing 22.25 TWh, making up more than half of the total electricity generation. Low-carbon sources, entirely represented by hydropower, amounted to 12.06 TWh, nearly a third of the total energy used. This allocation underscores Nigeria's heavy dependence on fossil energy, with clean energy playing a comparatively minor role. The global electricity consumption average stands at 3771 kWh per person, yet Nigeria's consumption is considerably lower, which can impact economic growth and hinder socio-economic development. Insufficient electricity supply could limit advancements in technology, healthcare, and education, among other sectors, ultimately stalling progress and quality of life improvements in Nigeria.

Is Electricity Growing in Nigeria?

Electricity consumption in Nigeria has seen a concerning decline when comparing the latest data from 2026, which showed an average consumption of 145 kWh per person, to the previous record set in 2023 at 187 kWh per person—a drop of 42 kWh per person. The low-carbon segment of this electricity also saw a decline, with 2026 figures showing 51 kWh per person from clean electricity sources compared to 62 kWh per person in its historical peak in 2002—a reduction of 11 kWh per person. This drop in both total and low-carbon electricity generation is worrisome, as it signals stagnation in the growth of sustainable energy production—key to addressing demand from rising electrification needs and mitigating the impacts of climate change and air pollution.

Suggestions

For Nigeria to enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, strategic investment in solar and nuclear power should be prioritized, drawing insights from successful global examples. China, for instance, showcases leadership in solar and wind, generating an impressive 1213 TWh and 1131 TWh, respectively, while the United States leads in nuclear power with 785 TWh. Meanwhile, India has been making strides in solar and wind, generating 182 TWh and 121 TWh, respectively. Brazil demonstrates significant wind generation at 112 TWh. Nigeria can learn from these countries the importance of a diversified energy portfolio that includes solar and nuclear, setting a trajectory towards a more sustainable and self-reliant electricity supply.

History

Historically, Nigeria's low-carbon electricity, predominantly hydropower, has experienced fluctuations. The late 1980s and the early 2000s saw incremental growth, with small yearly increases such as 0.7 TWh in 1988 and more significant additions like 2.3 TWh in 2002. However, this was followed by periods of decline, notably with a reduction of 1.5 TWh in 2006. The positive trend resumed with notable increments in 2010 with 1.8 TWh, and 2016 with an increase of 2.4 TWh. Although the recent increase of 2.3 TWh in 2025 and 0.7 TWh in 2026 is encouraging, more aggressive measures are necessary to achieve sustained growth in clean energy infrastructure. By adopting strategic policies and investing in reliable low-carbon technologies like solar and nuclear, Nigeria can achieve a more robust and sustainable electricity future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

* 12M = Last 12 months (May 2025 – Apr 2026) — a rolling 12-month period, not a calendar year.