The Documentary Podcast Powering Nigeria
Oct 2, 2025
In this enlightening discussion, Abdulaziz Fagi, the World Bank's project leader for energy in Nigeria, highlights the country's staggering electricity access deficit affecting over 80 million people. He explains the challenges posed by urban-rural disparities and how rapid population growth strains the already fragile grid. Fagi shares insights into the rise of decentralized power solutions, like solar mini-grids, as communities innovate to mitigate frequent outages. He also addresses the reliance on generators and the potential of new reforms to empower local energy management.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Scale Of Nigeria's Energy Deficit
- Over 85 million Nigerians lack electricity, making Nigeria the largest global energy access deficit.
- This gap undermines education, healthcare and business functions across the country.
Access ≠ Reliability
- Many connected Nigerians have intermittent access due to load shedding and weak transmission.
- People commonly back up the grid with diesel or petrol generators rather than enjoying continuous 24-hour supply.
Personal Memories Of Power Shortages
- Prince Adetunji Adeye recalls studying by candlelight growing up in a rural community without power.
- Emeka Emmanuel Oguze describes a long-term decline as grid infrastructure lagged population and economic growth.