Why Has Nigeria's Energy Deficit Persisted? A Literature Review on the Prevailing Factors Affecting Power Generation

This study reviewed the literature on the factors contributing to low power generation, which has been a critical cause of long-term energy inefficiency in Nigeria. Although the country had an installed generating capacity of 13.5 GW in 2019, only 3.7 GW was supplied for the 8.25 GW peak demand. As a result, the government has invested in expanding the available power plants and rehabilitating old ones to increase the total generating capacity. However, energy scarcity has persisted. Past studies have identified various factors contributing to Nigeria's low electricity generation. However, this study determines which factors have prevailed in the literature. The investigation revealed that the dominant factors contributing to the country’s low power generation are the inadequate maintenance of power plants and militant activities, insufficient funding, and corruption. These factors must be urgently addressed to ensure the effective and reliable operation of the existing electric power plants. Specifically, the government needs to amend its energy policies to emphasize the stringency of infrastructural maintenance. The policies should guide ascertaining the root causes of militant activities and the rules of engagement with the local population in the oil-producing regions.