El Niño drought threatens Nigeria’s power supply, may force imports by 2026
BMI’s Sub‑Saharan Africa Power & Renewables Report warns that El Niño‑driven drought could cut Nigeria’s hydropower output by more than a quarter, pushing the country to become a net electricity importer as early as 2026. The report notes Nigeria already imports 6.6 % of its electricity and relies on imported hydropower through the West African Power Pool, making it the most vulnerable market in the region. Lower water levels could raise electricity prices and increase supply disruptions, echoing earlier warnings from the Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors that major hydro plants are running below capacity and that discos have turned to gas‑fired plants to fill the gap.
Why does this matter to you? Higher generation costs often translate into higher tariffs for homes and businesses, and any shortfall could lead to more frequent load‑shedding. If you depend on steady power for work, study or appliances, you may face higher bills or need to plan for backup supplies.
What should you know or do? Consider energy‑saving measures, evaluate solar or inverter options for your home or business, and keep an eye on tariff announcements from DISCOS. Policymakers are expected to boost gas‑fired and renewable investments to offset hydro losses, so exploring alternative power sources now could reduce future vulnerability.