Power expert Chinedu Bosah has called on the Federal Government to reconsider the recent 300% increase in electricity tariffs imposed by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission. Bosah, the National Coordinator of the Coalition for Affordable and Regular Electricity (CARE), emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of energy policies to ensure affordability and sustainability for all Nigerians.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, Bosah expressed concerns about the consumer-unfriendly nature of the tariff hike and urged labor unions to engage in discussions with the government on the matter. He also criticized the government’s decision to raise gas prices, warning that it would further escalate the cost of electricity for consumers.
Dr. Akinrolabu Olukayode, Chairman of the Customer Consultative Forum of Festac/Satellite Town, echoed Bosah’s sentiments, describing the tariff hike as detrimental to consumers’ living standards. Olukayode emphasized the urgent need for proactive government investment in the power sector to enhance infrastructure and service delivery.
Both experts highlighted the challenges faced by consumers, including frequent power grid collapses and the reliance on expensive fuel for backup power generation. They called for alternative policies, such as selling gas in local currency, to ease the financial burden on consumers.
Olukayode also advocated for a restructuring of the energy sector to grant regions/states more control over their resources. He warned of the severe consequences of continuous tariff hikes and urged measures to shield consumers from further economic hardships.
According to a report by NAN, Vice Chairman of NERC, Musiliu Oseni, announced the 300% increase in electricity tariffs for Band A consumers in the country. The hike, effective from April 1, will see power distribution companies (DisCos) raising electricity prices to N225 ($0.15) per kilowatt-hour for urban consumers, affecting only 15% of electricity customers in the country.
