By Faridat Salifu
The European Union (EU) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Federal Government of Nigeria in conducting a significant residential sector demand-side survey aimed at surveying 5,400 households across the country’s six geopolitical zones.
This initiative, part of the EU’s Global Gateway Initiative, is a collaborative effort involving the EU, the International Energy Agency (IEA), the Federal Ministry of Power, the Energy Commission of Nigeria, and the National Bureau of Statistics.
The official launch of the Nigeria Residential Sector Demand-Side Survey in Abuja witnessed Minister of Power Chief Adebayo Adelabu highlighting the government’s dedication to ensuring reliable electricity access for households, businesses, and industries.
The primary objective of the survey is to gather accurate and comprehensive data on energy consumption and demand, with a particular focus on rural and hard-to-reach areas, aiming to enhance energy access across the nation.
Minister Adelabu underscored the necessity for substantial funding in energy generation, transmission, and distribution, emphasizing the pivotal role of public-private partnerships and investment from both local and international sources.
He acknowledged the support of key international partners, including the EU, World Bank, African Development Bank, and Agence Française de Développement, in addressing Nigeria’s energy challenges.
Mr. Zissimos Vergos, EU Deputy Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, highlighted the survey’s significance in aligning with Nigeria’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the current administration’s agenda.
The survey aims to provide transparent data to inform policy decisions and drive investments in the energy sector.
Adeyemi Adeniran, Statistician General of Nigeria and head of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), mentioned that the survey, involving visits to selected households across the six geopolitical zones, is anticipated to yield its final report by April.
Ms. Mary Warlick, Deputy Executive Director of the IEA, emphasized the pivotal role of energy data in supporting policy design and capacity building, expressing the agency’s satisfaction in partnering with Nigeria on this survey.
The Nigeria Residential Sector Demand-Side Survey is poised to address energy challenges, contribute to poverty alleviation, empower citizens, and promote political inclusion.
This initiative represents a crucial step towards formulating and implementing effective energy policies for the benefit of all Nigerians.