Feasibility Study for Wind Data Analysis Across Nigeria's 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja

In Nigeria, nearly 136.5 million people lack access to clean electricity, representing approximately 61.2% of the total population (According to the National Bureau of Statistics). This study presents key information on wind speed distribution across the country's 36 states, aiming to provide statistical recommendations for wind turbine deployment throughout the federation. Fifteen years of wind data and five years of hourly data from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) were analyzed using the standard deviation method of the Weibull distribution and GIS mapping techniques. The wind energy analysis reveals distinct wind patterns and average speeds across various regions of Nigeria, which influence the feasibility of stand-alone wind energy projects. In the Northwest region, an average wind speed of 4.2 m/s, a shape parameter (k) of 6.77, and a scale parameter (c) of 3.06 indicate moderate wind speeds with a steady distribution, particularly in states such as Sokoto and Gusau. The Northeast region exhibits an average wind speed of 3.5 m/s, with a shape parameter (k) of 5.86 and a scale parameter (c) of 2.88; some locations, like Damaturu, experience wind speeds up to 4 m/s. While the form parameter suggests relatively stable wind patterns, the Southwest region shows comparatively low wind potential, with a shape parameter (k) of 6.46, a scale parameter (c) of 2.25, and an average wind speed of 2.17 m/s. Similarly, the Southeast region has low but stable wind conditions, with an average wind speed of approximately 2.00 m/s and shape and scale parameters of 6.35 and 2.05, respectively. In conclusion, the prospects for wind energy projects appear marginally better in the Northwest and Northeast regions, especially in areas with higher wind speeds. The generally low wind speeds observed in most regions underscore the need for hybrid energy systems that integrate solar and wind power to provide a reliable and sustainable energy source.