Japan commits N20 billion to boost electricity transmission in Lagos

The Government of Japan, through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has committed N20 billion to the expansion and rehabilitation of Nigeria’s national electricity grid, with the funding targeted at the expansion of the Apapa Transmission Substation as part of efforts to improve electricity supply in the state.

Mr Ishigame Keiji, Chief Representative of JICA, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lagos.

He said the project was aimed at rehabilitating and reinforcing critical transmission infrastructure in Lagos, where rising electricity demand and ageing facilities had continued to affect reliable power supply.

What they are saying

The project covers construction works, equipment procurement, engineering services, operational training and implementation support required to upgrade the Apapa Transmission Substation.

• “Apapa Substation occupies a vital position within Nigeria’s transmission network. The rehabilitation and reinforcement undertaken through this project have enhanced transmission capacity,” Keiji said.

He added that the project had improved operational reliability, strengthened grid stability and reduced bottlenecks affecting power evacuation and distribution within Lagos and surrounding areas.

According to him, Japan, through JICA, is also implementing another Official Development Assistance (ODA) project through a concessional loan to enhance the transmission network across the Lagos-Ogun areas.

• “The Government of Japan, through JICA, is collaborating with the Ministry of Power to enhance stable and reliable power supply in Nigeria,” Keiji said.

Keiji said Nigeria’s large market continued to attract Japanese companies and other private-sector investors, adding that stronger government support alongside private…