Nigeria’s power generation companies have raised fresh concerns over the growing financial challenges facing the electricity sector, warning that increasing debt obligations and stranded generation capacity continue to threaten the industry’s sustainability.
Industry operators said the sector has recorded an additional debt burden estimated at ₦1 trillion, adding to longstanding liabilities that have accumulated over the years. They noted that persistent payment shortfalls across the electricity value chain have placed significant pressure on generation companies, limiting their ability to meet operational and financial obligations.
The companies also expressed concern over stranded power capacity valued at approximately ₦2.376 trillion. According to industry stakeholders, stranded power refers to electricity generation capacity that remains underutilised due to transmission, distribution, and market constraints despite investments made to increase production capacity.
Power producers argued that the continued inability to fully evacuate and distribute generated electricity has resulted in substantial financial losses while discouraging further investment in the sector. They maintained that significant resources have been committed to expanding generation capacity, yet much of the available power cannot reach end users because of infrastructure limitations.
Stakeholders further highlighted the broader liquidity crisis affecting the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry, noting that outstanding invoices, foreign exchange pressures, and rising operational costs have continued to weaken the financial position of generation companies. Industry figures indicate that debt owed to power producers has risen sharply over the years, creating challenges for plant maintenance, gas procurement, and future investments.
The Association of Power Generation Companies has repeatedly called for urgent intervention to address payment backlogs and improve market efficiency. Industry leaders believe that resolving the debt burden and eliminating constraints responsible for stranded capacity would significantly improve electricity supply and attract fresh investment into the sector.
Experts have also stressed the need for stronger coordination across the generation, transmission, and distribution segments of the electricity market. They argue that without improvements in infrastructure and market settlement mechanisms, Nigeria may continue to face challenges in fully utilising its installed power generation capacity despite growing demand for electricity.
As discussions on sector reforms continue, power producers remain hopeful that government-led initiatives aimed at addressing outstanding liabilities and improving liquidity will provide relief and support long-term stability within the electricity industry.
