By Rasheeda Hamidu
Nigeria has been ranked among Africa’s five largest electricity-producing countries, according to data compiled by the International Energy Agency and published by Business Insider Africa in May 2026.
The ranking placed South Africa as the continent’s largest electricity producer, followed by Egypt, Algeria, Nigeria and Morocco, based on total electricity generation output.
According to the International Energy Agency, Africa’s growing electricity demand is being driven by population growth, urbanisation and expanding industrial activities across several economies on the continent.
The report noted that Nigeria continues to face major electricity access and transmission challenges despite its position among Africa’s leading electricity producers and its large natural gas reserves.
Data referenced in the publication showed that fossil fuels remain the dominant source of electricity generation across many African countries, with natural gas playing a major role in Nigeria’s energy mix.
The International Energy Agency has repeatedly stated that expanding renewable energy investment remains critical for improving electricity access and reducing greenhouse gas emissions across Africa’s energy sector.
According to the World Bank, nearly 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa still lack access to electricity, making energy access one of the continent’s major development and environmental challenges.
Energy analysts cited in the report noted that improving electricity generation and transmission infrastructure would be essential for supporting industrial development and reducing dependence on diesel-powered generators in Nigeria and other African countries.
The ranking comes as several African governments continue to expand investment in solar, hydropower and other renewable energy projects to improve energy security and support climate commitments.
For NatureNews, the report underscores the environmental importance of transitioning Africa’s power sector toward cleaner and more sustainable energy systems amid rising electricity demand across the continent.
