The Federal Government of Nigeria has reduced electricity exports to Niger Republic by 42%, dropping supply from 80 megawatts (MW) to 46 MW, exacerbating power shortages in the junta-ruled nation. The cut, disclosed by Niger’s Energy Minister, Haoua Amadou, in an AFP interview, has led to a 30-50% drop in electricity production, forcing state-owned utility Nigelec to implement prolonged power cuts, particularly in Niamey.
The reduction stems from regional sanctions imposed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) following the July 2023 coup that ousted Niger’s civilian President Mohamed Bazoum. ECOWAS, which includes Nigeria, suspended energy transactions among other measures to pressure the military junta. Although sanctions were later lifted, Nigeria has maintained a limited supply, providing only 46 MW compared to the pre-sanction 80 MW, far below Niger’s demand.
Amadou noted that despite efforts to boost local production, Niamey continues to face controlled power shutdowns. The shortfall has driven a surge in solar energy adoption, with rooftop solar panels becoming a common sight in the capital. Niamey resident Elhadj Abdou, from the Lazaret neighborhood, highlighted the shift: “There are no more power cuts here, and there are no bills to pay; everything works on solar energy.” Affordable solar panels, mostly imported from China and costing around 50,000 CFA francs (75 euros), are now widely sold on Niamey’s streets.
Nigeria, a key electricity supplier to Niger, generates power primarily from thermal and hydroelectric sources, relying heavily on natural gas for its over 29 thermal plants.