Benue State University, Makurdi

DIVERSIFYING ENERGY SOURCE: A PROSPECT TO ACHIEVING STEADY POWER SUPPLY IN NIGERIA

Kyarem Richard Ngusha

Abstract

Apart from land, labour, capital and entrepreneur, constant and steady electricity is the fifth modern day indispensable factor of production and hence inevitable for the development of any country. The rate of consumption of electricity is directly proportional to the production level and growth of any country. The study also examines the source, service delivery and problems associated with the present insufficient hydro power supply in Nigeria. Using secondary data, tables and graphs, the research discover that the demand for electricity in Nigeria in the past decade, outstrips the supply; and that the level of electricity production in Nigeria determines the rate of growth of GDP. The study postulates diversification from hydro source to alternative sources of solar and wind because the wind and solar sources are more abundant in Nigeria, cost less and are prone to lesser socio-political interference and restiveness. For programme implementation, the paper recommends a public – private sector collaboration based on a sound legal framework and a national resource survey. The author believes a carefully planned and executed diversification programme will translate Nigeria from an electricity-epileptic power country to that with a constant and consistent power supply and hence a basis and stimulus to growth and development.

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