Amid ongoing nationwide frustration over erratic power supply, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has indicated that another electricity tariff hike may be imminent. This revelation has sparked widespread public concern, especially among citizens and businesses already grappling with unreliable electricity and rising living costs.
Speaking during a recent energy sector briefing, officials from the Federal Ministry of Power and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) defended the possible adjustment, citing the need to sustain investment in the power sector, address infrastructure deficits, and reflect current exchange rate realities.
“We understand the difficulties Nigerians are facing,” a senior official stated, “but cost-reflective tariffs are critical for attracting private investment and improving power generation and distribution in the long term.”
Critics, however, argue that increasing tariffs without first ensuring a steady and reliable power supply is unfair to consumers. “Nigerians are being asked to pay more for a service that remains deeply inadequate,” said Amina Okoro, an energy rights advocate. “This is not reform; it’s economic hardship disguised as policy.”
The announcement follows recent partial tariff adjustments for Band A customers, who are supposed to receive up to 20 hours of electricity daily — a promise many say remains unfulfilled. With inflation at historic highs and fuel prices already straining household budgets, the prospect of higher electricity bills is being met with growing resistance.