Electricity Reforms Under Scrutiny: Experts Decry High Tariffs Amid Persistent Blackouts

As Nigeria marks two years under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, the nation’s electricity reforms are facing intense criticism. Despite promises of improved power supply and increased generation capacity, many Nigerians continue to endure prolonged blackouts, even as electricity tariffs have surged.

Energy experts and consumers alike are questioning the rationale behind recent tariff hikes, especially in areas that have seen little to no improvement in power supply. Monica Maduekwe, a sustainable energy expert, cautioned that increasing tariffs without addressing the underlying issues in the power sector is counterproductive. She emphasized that without significant investment in infrastructure and a commitment to resolving systemic challenges, higher tariffs will not translate into better service for consumers.

Residents in various parts of the country have expressed frustration over the persistent lack of electricity. In some communities, power outages have lasted for years, with no clear timeline for restoration. Despite these challenges, consumers are still required to pay for electricity, leading to widespread dissatisfaction and protests.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has faced backlash for approving significant tariff increases, with some rates rising by over 200%. Labor unions and consumer advocacy groups have staged protests, demanding a rollback of the hikes and a more transparent approach to electricity pricing.

The federal government has defended the reforms, citing the need to reduce subsidies and attract investment into the power sector. However, critics argue that without tangible improvements in electricity supply, the reforms disproportionately burden consumers without delivering the promised benefits.

As the nation continues to grapple with these challenges, stakeholders are calling for a comprehensive review of the electricity reforms to ensure that they address the root causes of the power crisis and provide relief to the millions of Nigerians still living in darkness.